Cocktail Nibbles

It's cocktail time! And whether you are pouring a traditional yuletide eggnog or a scotch on the rocks, you will need a 'little something' to munch on. No, we are not talking hors d'oeuvres here. This is not something for guests to fill up on before dinner because they know their hostess is a terrible cook and they had better eat now or never. 'Nibbles' are about a mouthful of something savory. Something that gets passed around in a silver bowl; you grab a few, place them on your cocktail napkin and nibble. The following two recipes are a Southern tradition. They both make a lot which you will be happy to have on hand when an unexpected guest shows up.

SPICY PECANS

2 pounds pecan halves (8 cups)
1/4 cup honey
3/4 cup maple syrup (the real stuff, please)
1/4 cup sugar
3 teaspoons chile powder
3 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
2 teaspoons paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
pinch of cayenne (or to taste)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread the pecans on a large baking sheet (jelly roll pan) and toast for 10 minutes.
2. In a large heat proof bowl (stainless is good), stir together the honey and maple syrup. Pour in the toasted pecans while they are still warm. Toss to coat.
3. Return coated pecans to the baking sheet. Continue baking an additional 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn.
4. In a small bowl stir together the sugar, chile powder, ground cumin, fresh rosemary, paprika, salt and cayenne.
5. Remove the pecans from the oven and place in the stainless steel bowl. Sprinkle with the sugar/spice/herb mixture. Toss well.
6. Place pecans on a baking sheet, separating any nuts that are sticking. Allow to cool. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

CHEESE STRAWS

1 pound extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 3/4 cup all purpose flour
1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne or to taste

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter. Add cheese, salt and cayenne. Mix well. Add flour.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the cheese dough to about 1/2" thickness. Cut into long narrow strips and then cut again into 3" segments. (This dough can also be used in a cookie press, if you have one).
3. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes.