Blanched Almond
Description
Blanched almonds are a versatile ingredient beloved in culinary traditions worldwide. These almonds have undergone a process which removes their outer skin, revealing the smooth, creamy white nut inside. The blanching process involves briefly boiling the almonds in water, making the skins loose and easy to peel off. Once peeled, the almonds are immediately cooled to prevent them from cooking further, ensuring they retain their distinct texture and flavor.
Common uses
Blanched almonds are commonly used as a decorative garnish on desserts, ground into almond flour or almond meal for baking, or sliced and added to salads and other savory dishes.
Nutritional value
Calories
Approximately 580 calories per 100 grams (3.5 oz or roughly 2/3 cup).
Protein
Contains about 21 grams (0.74 oz) of protein per 100 grams.
Fat
Contains about 50 grams (1.76 oz) of fat per 100 grams, primarily healthy monounsaturated fats.
Carbohydrates
Contains about 20 grams (0.71 oz) of carbohydrates per 100 grams, of which approximately 4 grams are dietary fiber.
Vitamins
Rich in vitamin E, B vitamins (especially riboflavin and niacin).
Minerals
Contains significant amounts of magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron.
Health benefits
Blanched almonds offer numerous health benefits including aiding weight management, supporting heart health, and providing a good source of antioxidants.
Potential risks
Consuming blanched almonds in large quantities may lead to excessive calorie intake. Almonds also contain oxalates, which in excess, may contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.
Common recipes
Blanched almonds are a key ingredient in marzipan, almond paste, French macarons, and various confections and baked goods.
Cooking methods
They can be toasted, ground, sliced, or chopped for different textures and flavors in recipes.
Pairing with other ingredients
Blanched almonds pair well with fruits like cherries and apricots, spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, and are excellent in both sweet and savory dishes.
Summary
Blanched almonds are a nutritious and delectable ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes and are prized for their contribution to health and well-being.