Almond

What Is Almond?

Almond (Prunus dulcis) is the seed of a tree from the same family as plum and apricot; the edible part is the white kernel covered with a thin brown skin inside a hard shell. It originates from the Mediterranean and Middle East and is grown in Turkey especially in the Aegean region.

Sweet almond varieties are used in cooking, while bitter almond varieties are not eaten unprocessed as they contain toxic compounds. It has a slightly sweet, oily taste and a crisp texture.

Nutritional Values of Almond

Almond is a filling nut with a high fat and protein content; 100 g contains about 579 kcal of energy, 21.2 g of protein, and 12.5 g of fiber. It is especially rich in vitamin E, and also carries minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

What Are the Benefits of Almond?

With its high vitamin E, fiber, and protein content, almond stands out among the nuts that are part of a balanced diet. Studies on the contribution of portion-controlled consumption to overall diet are ongoing.

This information is general; almond is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Those with a nut allergy are advised to be careful.

How to Choose Almond?

When buying almond in the shell, checking its weight is the most practical method; when buying shelled almond, freshness and color should be considered.

• An in-shell almond should feel full and heavy in the hand.
• A shelled almond's skin should be light brown and its kernel cream-white; darkened, shriveled kernels have gone stale.
• There should be no moldy smell or bitter-oil smell when smelled.

How to Store Almond?

In-shell almond can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place. Shelled almond kernels, having a high fat content, keep their freshness longer when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can be kept in the freezer for months.

Using Almond in the Kitchen

Almond is used raw, roasted, salted, sliced (almond flakes), or ground (almond flour). It appears across a wide range from sweet to savory: cookie and cake dough, almond candy, salad topping, and almond milk are among its most common uses.

How Is Almond Peeled?

Almond kernels are soaked in boiling water for about 1 minute, then transferred to cold water; this process allows the thin skin to be easily peeled off. Peeled almond gives a more refined appearance in desserts and garnishes.

How Is Almond Milk Made?

Almonds soaked in water overnight are drained and blended with clean water, then strained through cheesecloth to obtain homemade almond milk. It can be used instead of milk in sauces and smoothies.

Which Recipes Use Almond?

Almond cookies, almond-flour cake, tarator with almond, and almond candy are among the most loved recipes. Sliced almond is also frequently used to add crunch to salads and rice dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is almond good for?

Almond is rich in vitamin E, protein, and fiber, and stands out among the nuts that are part of a balanced diet. It is a food; it does not claim to cure any disease.

How many almonds should be eaten a day?

Since its calorie density is high, a handful a day (about 20-23 almonds) is considered a reasonable portion. Since personal needs may vary, consulting a dietitian is best.

Is bitter almond edible?

No, raw bitter almond contains toxic compounds (amygdalin) and should not be consumed unprocessed. The almond used in the kitchen is the safe sweet almond variety.

Should almond be stored in the shell or shelled?

In-shell almond stays fresh longer as it is better protected from outside factors. Shelled almond is convenient, but its fat comes into contact with air faster, so it goes stale more quickly.

Can almond flour replace wheat flour?

Partially; almond flour can replace part of the wheat flour in gluten-free recipes and some cake-cookie formulas, but since it lacks binding gluten, the recipe may need to be adjusted significantly.