Almond Nuts
Ironic enough, almond trees were first brought to the United States from
Spain in the 1700s and today the United States is the largest exporter
of almond nuts in the world with Spain ranking as the second largest market,
behind Germany. California is home to the largest almond nut crop and
they rank highest in U.S. horticultural exports, producing nearly 100
percent of domestic almond consumption and nearly 75 percent of worldwide
consumption.
Almond nuts are, like all nuts, more beneficial to a healthy diet than
one might think. They are high in calories, but when eaten as part of
a well-balanced diet, can lower blood cholesterol levels, as nuts are
believed to be a good source of the "good" fats. Almond nuts are also
a source of protein, calcium and vitamin E. Almond nuts are crunchy and
have a mildly bittersweet taste.
Almond nuts have a distinct flavor when added to foods and are often
used in paste form in place of marzipan for confectionery delights.
Almond paste is coarser than marzipan, but just as pliable and is
often preferred for its flavor. Almond extract is another popular
flavoring for culinary use and Amaretto, though actually a liqueur,
is often a flavoring name given to other products made with almond
flavoring. Coffee for example is often given this unique flavoring
and served espresso style with whipped cream, sprinkled with ginger or cinnamon.
Almond nuts provide a complimentary flavor to Asian and Mediterranean
style dishes, especially with shrimp or chicken. They are also excellent
atop salads. Though almonds compliment many desserts, cherry flavored
sweets go particularly well with the almond flavoring. It is hard to say
whether this nut is used more in cooking or baking, but any dish can be
enhanced with the flavor of almond nuts. A variety of recipes can be found
online.