Hazelnut

What Is a Hazelnut?

The hazelnut (Corylus avellana) is the hard-shelled fruit of a tree from the birch family. Turkey supplies the majority of the world's hazelnut production; the Black Sea coastal region (Giresun, Ordu, Trabzon) in particular is the center of hazelnut farming.

Inside its round, hard brown shell is a cream-colored, oily, slightly sweet kernel. Raw, roasted, in-shell or shelled, it is used both on its own as a snack and as an ingredient in sweet and savory recipes.

Nutritional Values of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are a nut with a high monounsaturated fat ratio and high energy density; 100 grams contain approximately 628 kcal, 15 g protein, and 60.8 g fat. They are particularly 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 stand out as part of a balanced diet. Studies examining the relationship between regular but moderate consumption and cardiovascular health exist; these findings have not yet turned into a definitive treatment recommendation.

This information is general; hazelnuts are a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Since their calorie density is high, a daily handful (approximately 20-30 g) is recommended.

How to Choose Hazelnuts?

For in-shell hazelnuts, a solid, uncracked, and heavy shell is a sign of freshness; for shelled hazelnuts, a vivid cream-colored kernel is sought.

• When shaken, an in-shell hazelnut should not feel hollow inside; a hollow shell means it has dried out.
• A shelled hazelnut should not have a sour or bitter smell when cracked.
• The color should be a homogeneous cream-brown; moldy spots or darkening indicate loss of freshness.

How to Store Hazelnuts?

Because hazelnuts have a high fat ratio, they 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 up to 1 year in the freezer.

Using Hazelnuts in the Kitchen

Hazelnuts are used raw as a snack, roasted in sweet and savory recipes, ground in cake and cookie doughs, and made into a paste as a breakfast spread.

How to Roast Hazelnuts?

Shelled hazelnuts are arranged in a single layer on a baking tray and roasted in a 160-170°C oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the thin skin loosens, it can easily be rubbed off with a kitchen towel.

How to Make Hazelnut Butter?

Roasted and skinned hazelnuts are ground in a food processor, first to a flour-like consistency and then for a longer time until they release their own oil and turn into a smooth paste; a little salt or honey can be added if desired.

Which Recipes Use Hazelnuts?

Hazelnut butter, hazelnut cake, hazelnut cookies, chocolate-hazelnut cream, and hazelnut salad are among the most loved uses. Roasted hazelnuts are also added to desserts and granola for crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hazelnuts should be eaten per day?

Due to their calorie density, a daily handful (approximately 20-30 g, 15-20 pieces) is considered a balanced portion. This amount can easily be added to a balanced eating plan.

Do hazelnuts cause weight gain?

Hazelnuts are a fat- and calorie-dense food; consumed without moderation, they can disrupt the daily calorie balance. Consumed with portion control, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Are raw hazelnuts or roasted hazelnuts more beneficial?

Raw hazelnuts retain more of certain heat-sensitive nutrients; roasting, on the other hand, brings out the aroma more and makes the skin easier to remove. Both can be part of a balanced diet.

What is a hazelnut allergy?

Hazelnuts are among the tree-nut allergies commonly seen; people with sensitivity must consult their doctor before consuming them.

What is the difference between hazelnuts and walnuts?

Hazelnuts are rounder, sweeter, and higher in fat, while walnuts stand out with their wrinkled inner structure and omega-3 content; both are preferred in different recipes in the kitchen.