Organic almonds - unpeeled

From certified organic farming

Almond is in the Rosaceae family, a close relative to plums. There is two types of almonds: we eat the sweet one, the bitter almond is used in medicine and oil producing. Fresh yield can be harvested in September-October and can be eaten the whole year.

The history of almond

It originates from the dry and warm parts of Central-Asia. We have been eating it and using it for about 6000 years.

It spread through the Silk Road by Arabian mercantile, and acclimatized in North-Africa in the hot and dry climate of the Mediterranean. Very common in Portugal, Spanish and Arabian cuisine.

In the middle age "flour" often meant almond flour, and in times of fasting they often consumed almond milk instead of dairy.

Hungary is in the northest region where almond grows. Best known places are the Buda mountains and the region north from Lake Balaton.

Physiological effects:

Almond is rich in Vitamin E, which helps detoxifing and strenthening the immune system. Also contains high amounts of Vitamin B1, folic acid, riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin P, and phosphorous.

Excellent source of mineral substances. Magnesium strengthens the bones, increases protein production, and sustains the calcium-potassium balance.

Copper helps the oxygen flow in the blood, improves the blood vessels and the nervous system.

Zinc stimulates wound healing.

Because of its iron content, it is recommended in cases of recovery and if you have a problem with haematogenesis.

If you make cream from it, it moisturizes and clears your skin.

Almond milk made of blanched almonds has been used for centuries. This milk is popular in soy and animal product-free diets, great source of protein, and helps the memory.

Almond is high in protein and fiber alike. This combination helps balancing the nutritional intake - so no matter you are eating an oily seed, it protects your health and makes you feel full. Moderates blood sugar spikes.

It is beneficial in the prevention of some types of cancer.

How can I use almonds?

Toasting almonds underlines its taste. Preheat the oven for 75 °C and toast for 15-20 minutes.

For ground almonds, you should turn the machine on and off, because permanent blitzing will result in almond butter.

European cuisine mainly uses it for sweets, but its a great savory snack too, and suits well with vegetables, fruits and meats also.

Try it on salads. Combine with apples, mustard or poppy seeds. Great addition to green peas, sugar snap peas, and celery.