Almonds are the edible seeds of Prunus dulcis, a tree related to the peach and the plum. They are crunchy, mildly sweet and rich, and are eaten whole, sliced, ground and as almond milk.
History
Almonds are among the oldest cultivated tree crops. They were grown in Western Asia thousands of years ago and spread around the Mediterranean through the Greeks and Romans. Spanish missionaries later planted them in California.
Where it comes from
The almond tree is native to the region from Iran to Central Asia. California now grows the majority of the world’s almonds, with Spain and Australia also major producers.
Flavor and how to use it
Eat almonds raw or toasted, blanched for cakes and marzipan, ground into flour, or soaked and blended into almond milk. In India, soaked almonds (badam) go into sweets and drinks. Toast them briefly in a dry pan for more flavor.
Good to know
Tree nuts are a common allergen. Always check labels, and ask before serving nuts to guests. Only sweet almonds are sold for eating. Bitter almonds are not sold raw.
Buying and storing
Keep almonds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, or in the fridge or freezer for longer storage, so their oils do not turn rancid.
In kitchens and traditions
Almonds are the seeds of a tree related to peaches and plums, native to Iran and surrounding regions of Central and Western Asia. They were traded along the Silk Road and carried by Arab and Spanish growers into the Mediterranean. California is now the world’s largest producer.
Almonds appear in marzipan in Europe, in badam milk and sweets such as badam halwa in India, in Spanish ajo blanco and turrón, and in Moroccan pastries. Almond flour is used in gluten-free baking, macarons and frangipane.
Good pairings and ideas
- Toast sliced almonds and scatter over salads, rice or oatmeal.
- Soak overnight and peel for smooth almond milk or badam paste.
- Grind into flour for cakes and cookies.
- Add to curries as a creamy thickener.
Frequently asked questions
Are almonds a nut?
Botanically they are seeds of a drupe, but they are treated as tree nuts for allergy purposes.
What is the difference between sweet and bitter almonds?
Bitter almonds contain compounds that can be toxic if eaten raw in quantity, and are not sold as ordinary snack almonds. Tree nuts are a major allergen. Anyone with a nut allergy should avoid them and check labels carefully.
How should I store them?
In an airtight container in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have allergies, a medical condition or are pregnant, check with a qualified professional before using any food in larger amounts than usual.
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