Almonds are the seeds of the fruit of the almond tree (Prunus dulcis). They are botanically not nuts but rather drupes, which are fruits with an outer fleshy part surrounding a shell with a seed inside. The outer layer of almond is oval,and it encloses a thick-shelled nut containing one or two seeds. Also known by Romans as “GREEK NUTS” almonds are one of the oldest and most widely cultivated nuts in the world, dating back thousands of years and is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. Almonds have been an important food source in many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans making soups and desserts as well as milk.

Usage:

• Almonds are used in both sweet and savoury dishes.
• They can be eaten raw, roasted, or blanched.
• Almond flour is a popular gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.
• Almond milk is a dairy-free milk alternative.

ALMOND RECIPES

ALMOND JOY ENERGY BITES | SNACKS

Sixto Carreon advocates healthy diet and that’s for sure you’ll love this dairy-free, sugar-free, vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free energy bites that good for snacks or to start your day! This is Almond Joy Energy Bites and here’s how you make it!

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted

1 cup almonds

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup almond butter

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/4 cup dried fruit

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. Place the almonds in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
2. Add the dates, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, oats, almond butter, maple syrup, chia seeds, dried fruits, vanilla extract, and salt to the food processor.
3. Process the mixture until it starts to come together and form a sticky dough.
4. Using your hands, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
5. Place the energy bites on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Store the Almond Joy energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

ALMOND-CRUSTED CHICKEN | MAIN COURSE

Easy peasy almond crusted chicken recipe!

INGREDIENTS:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup blanched almonds

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 eggs

2 tablespoons olive oil

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, pulse the almonds until finely chopped. Transfer to a shallow dish and mix with breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat with the almond mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

ALMOND-CRUSTED SALMON | MAIN COURSE

Flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the richness of salmon with the crunch of almonds. Here’s a simple recipe to make almond-crusted salmon:

INGREDIENTS:

4 salmon fillets

1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon olive oil

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the chopped almonds, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush each salmon fillet with Dijon mustard, coating both sides.
4. Press the mustard-coated salmon fillets into the almond mixture, coating them evenly on both sides.
5. Place the coated salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the almonds are lightly toasted and the salmon is cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

ALMOND ORANGE BISCOTTI | BISCOTTI

Here’s a recipe for almond orange biscotti, a delightful Italian treat perfect for dipping in coffee or enjoying on its own.

INGREDIENTS:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup almonds, chopped

2 tablespoons almond butter

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 orange

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Stir in the chopped almonds.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond butter, eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
7. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are firm and lightly browned.
9. Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.
10. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
11. Using a serrated knife, cut the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch slices.
12. Place the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the biscotti are crisp and golden.
13. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
14. Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Enjoy these almond orange biscotti with a cup of coffee or tea.

ALMOND BUTTER BANANA SMOOTHIE | SNACKS/DRINKS

INGREDIENTS:

1 ripe banana

1 tablespoon almond butter

1 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 handful spinach

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder

Ice cubes (optional)

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. Peel the banana and break it into chunks.
2. In a blender, combine the banana chunks, almond butter, almond milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), chia seeds, spinach, and cinnamon powder.
3. Blend until the smoothie is creamy and well mixed.
4. If desired, add ice cubes and blend again until smooth.
5. Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy!

HOMEMADE ALMOND MILK RECIPE

Here’s a simple recipe for homemade almond milk

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup raw almonds

4 cups water

3-4 pitted dates

Pinch of salt

Vanilla extract

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. Soak the almonds in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse them before use.
2. In a blender, combine the soaked almonds, 4 cups of water, pitted dates, pinch of salt, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Strain the almond mixture through a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or fine mesh strainer into a bowl or pitcher. Squeeze or press the mixture to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Store the almond milk in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Shake well before using, as it may separate over time.

ALMONDS PROFILE

Nutritional Profile

Nutrient-dense and rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly high in vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium.

Health Benefits

Associated with several health benefits, including heart health, weight management, and improved blood sugar control and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Types of Almonds

There are two main types of almonds: sweet almonds (Prunus dulcis var. dulcis) and bitter almonds (Prunus dulcis var. amara). Sweet almonds are the type commonly eaten, while bitter almonds are primarily used for their oil, which is used in flavoring and aromatherapy (bitter almonds contain toxic compounds and must be processed to remove these before consumption).

Culinary Uses

Almonds can be eaten raw, roasted, or toasted. They are commonly used in baking, cooking, and snacking. Almond butter, almond milk, and almond flour are popular almond-based products used in various recipes, especially in vegan and gluten-free cooking.

Almond Trees

Almond trees are native to the Middle East and South Asia but are now cultivated in many regions with Mediterranean climates. The trees bloom with white or pale pink flowers in early spring, and the nuts are harvested in late summer or early autumn.

Almonds in Culture

Almonds have cultural significance in many societies. In some cultures, almonds are a symbol of hope and good fortune. They are also used in various traditions and celebrations, such as weddings and religious ceremonies.

Sustainability

Almond cultivation can be water-intensive, especially in regions with dry climates. However, efforts are being made to improve the sustainability of almond production through water-efficient irrigation methods and other practices.