What Are Hazelnuts?
The hazelnut (Corylus avellana) is the hard-shelled fruit of a tree in the hazel family. Türkiye accounts for a large share of the world’s hazelnut production; the Black Sea coast, especially Giresun, Ordu, and Trabzon, is a center of hazelnut farming.
Inside the round, hard brown shell is a cream-colored kernel that is rich in oil and mildly sweet. Hazelnuts are eaten raw or roasted, in or out of the shell, as a snack on their own and as an ingredient in sweet and savory recipes.
Hazelnut Nutrition Facts
Hazelnuts are energy-dense nuts with a high proportion of monounsaturated fat; 100 grams contain about 628 kcal, 15 g of protein, and 60.8 g of fat. They are especially rich in vitamin E and magnesium, and are also considered a good source of fiber.
What Are the Benefits of Hazelnuts?
The monounsaturated fats and vitamin E in hazelnuts are components that can be part of a balanced diet. Studies have examined the relationship between regular, moderate consumption and cardiovascular health; these findings have not yet led to definitive treatment recommendations.
This is general information; hazelnuts are a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Because they are high in calories, a daily portion of one handful (about 20–30 g) is recommended.
How to Choose Hazelnuts
For in-shell hazelnuts, an intact, uncracked, heavy shell is a sign of freshness; for shelled hazelnuts, look for kernels with a bright cream color.
- When you shake an in-shell hazelnut, you should not feel an empty space inside; an empty shell means the kernel has dried out.
- When broken, shelled hazelnuts should not smell sour or bitter.
- The color should be uniformly cream to brown; mold spots or darkening are signs they are no longer fresh.
How to Store Hazelnuts
Because hazelnuts are high in oil, they can turn rancid if left at room temperature for a long time. Shelled hazelnuts stay fresh for 2–3 months in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, for 6 months in the refrigerator, and for up to 1 year in the freezer.
How to Use Hazelnuts in the Kitchen
Hazelnuts can be eaten raw as a snack, roasted for sweet or savory recipes, ground into cake and cookie batters, or made into a spread for breakfast.
How to Roast Hazelnuts
Arrange shelled hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast at 160–170°C / 320–340°F for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the thin skins loosen, rub them off easily with a kitchen towel.
How to Make Hazelnut Butter
Process roasted, skinned hazelnuts in a food processor, first until they resemble flour, then for longer until they release their own oil and become a smooth paste. Add a little salt or honey if desired.
Which Recipes Use Hazelnuts?
Hazelnut butter, hazelnut cake, hazelnut cookies, chocolate hazelnut spread, and hazelnut salad are among the most popular uses. Roasted hazelnuts can also be added to desserts and granola for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hazelnuts should you eat per day?
Because they are calorie-dense, one handful per day (about 20–30 g, or 15–20 nuts) is considered a balanced serving. This amount can easily be included in a balanced eating plan.
Do hazelnuts cause weight gain?
Hazelnuts are high in fat and calories; eating too many can disrupt daily calorie balance. In controlled portions, they can be part of a balanced diet.
Are raw or roasted hazelnuts healthier?
Raw hazelnuts retain more of some heat-sensitive nutrients, while roasting brings out their aroma and makes the skin easier to remove. Both can be part of a balanced diet.
What is a hazelnut allergy?
Hazelnuts are among the more common tree nuts to cause an allergy; people with a sensitivity should consult their doctor before eating them.
What is the difference between hazelnuts and walnuts?
Hazelnuts are rounder, mildly sweet, and high in fat, while walnuts are known for their wrinkled kernels and omega-3 content; both are used in different recipes.