Preparation, uses, and tips
Because of their mild flavor, almonds are used both as a garnish and as an ingredient in a
variety of both sweet and savory dishes. Sweetened almond paste, called marzipan, is used to
make candies and to decorate cakes. Almonds coated with caramelized sugar are called pralines.
Almonds can also be made into almond butter,
which is used in the same ways as peanut
butter, and can be ground into a powder and made into an almond milk drink.
Buying and storing tips
Because of their high oil content, almonds can go rancid quickly. For that reason, it is
best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will keep for
several months. Almonds can be kept frozen for up to a year.
Varieties
Almond varieties are classified as either sweet or bitter. The almonds widely available for
eating are known as the sweet almond, of which there are over 100 varieties grown in
California alone. The bitter almond contains toxins that are removed from the bitter almond
oil before it is used in food production. Bitter almond oil is used primarily as a flavoring,
and it is also used to make amaretto liqueur.
Nutrition Highlights
Almonds, 24 whole kernels (1 oz.)
Calories: 164
Protein: 6.0g
Carbohydrate: 5.6g
Total fat: 14.3g
Fiber: 3.3g
*Excellent source of: Vitamin E (7.4 IU)
*Good source of: Magnesium (78mg), and Riboflavin (0.23mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular
nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good
source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily
Value.