bird's nests

How To Make bird's nests

• Step 1
  Melt chips in heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring. Remove the bowl from the pan & stir in shoestring potatoes.
• Step 2
  Spray a 6 count muffin tin with cooking spray. Using a medium - large cookie scooper, scoop mixture into cups; make an indentation in each to form the nests. Place 4 - 6 almonds inside & press almonds lightly & chill until set, about 4 hours.
• Step 3
  SHOESTRING POTATOES: http://pik-nik.com/shoestrings.htm MARACONA ALMONDS: http://www.nuts.com/nuts/almonds/marcona-almonds.html?gclid=CNL2qtzWr7cCFSdgMgodJ34AVA What's the Deal with Marcona Almonds? Marcona almonds have been enjoying a steady rise in popularity over the past several years. They receive prominent displays at gourmet markets, get name-dropped on fancy restaurant menus & are frequently lauded as the best almonds ever by those in the know. Just what makes these almonds so special? Marcona almonds are a special product of Spain, akin to San Marzano tomatoes from Italy or caviar from Russia. They've been imported to the US for years, but have only recently gained a wider audience thanks to a growing interest in Spanish cuisine among chefs, food writers & other foodies. These almonds are more rounded & plump than the California varieties we're used to. They also seem to have a softer & somewhat "wet" texture, similar to macadamia nuts. The marcona almonds have a sweeter, more delicate taste closer to the flavor we associate with almond extract. It's easier to find these almonds than it used to be. You can definitely get them at Whole Foods & any good gourmet shop. You can usually find them raw or toasted with olive oil & salt. Trader Joe's also carries a variety that has toasted with rosemary! If you only have enough marcona almonds for a sampling, we recommend eating them on their own or as part of a cheese plate with Spanish cheeses. If you have some leftover, marcona almonds make a fantastic addition to salads or just about any dessert or baked good.
• Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!