Almonds

Almonds are a versatile and nutritious nut, popular in both sweet and savory dishes. They are available year-round, with peak freshness occurring in mid-summer to early fall. Almonds are a staple in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines, and are used in various forms such as whole, slivered, chopped, or ground into almond flour or butter. They add a rich, nutty flavor and are often used in pastries, confections, salads, and as a crunchy topping for various dishes.

Almonds Synonyms

Sweet almonds
bitter almonds

Almonds Substitutes

Walnuts

Different Forms/Types of Almonds

Oil

Extracted from almonds, this oil is used for its subtle, nutty flavor in dressings and cooking.

Whole

Almonds in their natural state, with or without the shell, often used for snacking or garnishing.

Flaked

Thin, flat pieces of almonds, used as a decorative and flavorful element in desserts and other dishes.

Ground

Almonds ground into a fine meal or flour, used for gluten-free baking or as a thickener in sauces and fillings.

Sliced

Almonds that have been thinly sliced, commonly used as a topping for salads, cereals, and baked goods.

Chopped

Roughly cut almonds that are perfect for adding crunch to various recipes or as a component in almond-based crusts.

Roasted

Almonds that have been heated in an oven or on a stove, enhancing their flavor and crunchiness.

Blanched

Almonds that have had their skins removed, resulting in a smooth texture, often used in confectionery and baking.

Slivered

Almonds that have been cut into long, thin strips, ideal for adding texture to dishes and baking.

How to Choose Almonds

When selecting almonds, look for nuts that are uniform in color and not shriveled. The nuts should feel heavy for their size and not rattle in their shell, which can indicate they are old and dried out. For packaged almonds, check for an expiration date and ensure the packaging is sealed properly without any signs of moisture or damage. When buying almond products like oil or flour, opt for cold-pressed oil and finely ground, fresh-smelling flour without any rancidity.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Almonds

Almonds are a versatile ingredient that can add texture, flavor, and nutrition to a variety of dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to understand the different ways almonds can be prepared to maximize their potential in recipes. Blanching almonds removes their skins and provides a softer texture, which can be ideal for making almond flour or marzipan. To blanch, boil almonds for 60 seconds, then immediately transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. The skins should slip off easily when pinched. Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor and adds crunch. This can be done in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently until golden, or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. Soaking almonds overnight in water can activate enzymes, making them easier to digest and their nutrients more available. This is particularly useful for making almond milk or cream.

Shelf Life of Almonds

Almonds should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Whole almonds can be kept in an airtight container for up to 2 years. Sliced, slivered, and chopped almonds have a shorter shelf life due to their increased surface area and should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer in airtight containers, where they can last for several months. Almond oil should be stored in a cool, dark place and used within its expiration date. Ground almonds or almond flour should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent the oils from going rancid.

Recommended Brands for Almonds

almond oil: NOW Foods, Spectrum

whole almonds: Blue Diamond, Trader Joe's

ground almonds: King Arthur Baking Company

sliced almonds: Bob's Red Mill, Trader Joe's

slivered almonds: Diamond of California

Cooking Techniques for Almonds

Soaking: Soaking almonds in water softens them and can help in reducing phytic acid content, which makes their nutrients more bioavailable. Soaked almonds are commonly used in making almond milk or for a creamier texture in smoothies and sauces.

Toasting: Toasting almonds in a dry pan or oven brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor. It's a simple yet effective way to add depth to both sweet and savory dishes.

Blanching: Blanching almonds involves briefly boiling them to loosen their skins, which can then be easily removed. This technique is often used when a smooth texture or appearance is desired, such as in confections or almond butter.

Popular Almonds Recipes

Almond Crusted Chicken
Chocolate Almond Torte
Homemade Almond Milk

Almonds Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 49.93 g
fiber: 12.5 g
sugar: 4.35 g
protein: 21.15 g
calories: 579 kcal
carbohydrates: 21.55 g

Flavor Combinations

Almonds have a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory ingredients. They complement fruits like cherries, apricots, and apples, and are often used in combination with chocolate and vanilla in desserts. In savory dishes, almonds add a nutty contrast to greens like spinach and kale, and they work well with grains such as quinoa and couscous. Herbs and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and rosemary can enhance the flavor of almonds, while their richness can be balanced with acidic components like citrus or balsamic vinegar.

Allergen Information

Almonds are one of the most common food allergens. Individuals with an almond allergy should avoid all forms of almonds and may need to read labels carefully, as almonds can be found in many processed foods. Symptoms of an almond allergy can range from mild to severe, including anaphylaxis, and those with the allergy should carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.

Ingredient Comparisons

Recipes with Almonds

Chicory Salad with Goat Cheese and Balsamic Vinaigrette