Macadamia nuts are the round, creamy, very rich seeds of trees in the genus Macadamia. They are among the richest nuts, soft and buttery, with a mild sweetness.
History
Macadamias are native to Australia, where Aboriginal peoples have eaten them for thousands of years. They were named in the 19th century after the chemist John Macadam, and commercial planting began in Hawaii in the early 20th century.
Where it comes from
The trees are native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia (Queensland and New South Wales). Australia, South Africa, Kenya, Hawaii and others now grow them.
Flavor and how to use it
Chop macadamias into cookies, brownies and banana bread, or eat them roasted and lightly salted. They also make creamy nut milks and nut butters, and work in stir-fries.
Good to know
Tree nuts are a common allergen. Always check labels, and ask before serving nuts to guests. Macadamias are very toxic to dogs, so keep them away from pets. They also have one of the hardest shells of any nut and need a special cracker.
Buying and storing
Keep in an airtight container, in the fridge or freezer for longer storage.
In kitchens and traditions
Macadamias are native to Australia, where Aboriginal peoples ate them for thousands of years. The nuts are named after the Scottish-Australian chemist John Macadam. Commercial cultivation expanded in Hawaii in the twentieth century, and today South Africa, Australia, Kenya and others produce them.
They are rich, buttery and high in fat, and are used in cookies, ice cream, chocolate and Hawaiian dishes. Macadamia oil is used in cooking and cosmetics.
Good pairings and ideas
- Chop into white chocolate cookies.
- Crust fish or chicken with crushed macadamias.
- Blend into creamy sauces and nut butter.
- Toast lightly for a snack.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the shell so hard?
The nut has a very tough shell, which requires special crackers.
Are macadamias toxic to dogs?
Yes. They are harmful to dogs, so keep them out of reach.
Allergens?
Yes. Tree nuts are a major allergen. Anyone with a nut allergy should avoid them and check labels carefully.
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.
Photo credit: Tony Wu on Pexels.