Almonds are the world’s most popular nut for snacking, decorative, and baking purposes.
We generally categorize almonds as a nut. However, they are regarded as “stone” fruits, or pits, and are harvested from the almond tree, which is in the peach family.
The nuts are grown throughout the Mediterranean as well as parts of Asia, Australia, Europe, and Africa. Three-quarters of the world’s almonds are harvested in California.
Almonds are also processed for:
Extract – This is a processed form of bitter or sweet almonds, which is mixed with alcohol.
Oil – The oil is favored for high-heat cooking as it has a light taste and high smoke point.
Paste – It is called marzipan when sweeteners are added. The paste is sold in tubes and cans, but can be made at home.
Butter – Less salty than its peanut counterpart and usable for many who suffer nut allergies.
Flour – Found in health food and gourmet stores. Used as a replacement in diabetic and low carbohydrate diets.
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