General Almond Instructions

If you are using almonds in breads or muffins, you'll find that toasting the almonds first not only brings out the wonderful flavor, but it will also keep them from sinking in the batter. Almonds can be used successfully in combination with most vegetables, fruits, and meats, but especially shine with fish, chicken, and rice savory dishes. Of course, almonds are a natural in desserts.

EQUIVALENTS FOR ALMONDS

1 lb. almonds in shell = 1/2 lb. meats = 1 1/2 cups meats
1 lb. almond meats = 3 cups meats (1 cup chopped)

How To Store Almonds

Almonds should be stored in a cool dry place (between 35-40 degrees F).  For longer lasting freshness, they should be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months

How to Blanch Almonds

Some recipes call for blanched almonds, which are almonds with the skins removed. This method is quick and easy.

Difficulty Level: Easy Time Required: 5 minutes

 Here's How:

Place almonds in a bowl.  Pour boiling water to barely cover almonds.  Let the almonds sit for 1 minute and no longer.  Drain, rinse under cold water, and drain again.  Pat dry and slip the skins off.

Tips:

Don't let almonds sit in hot water too long or they will lose their crispness. 
1 pound of almonds in the shell will yield about 1-1/2 cups shelled. 
1 pound shelled = 3 cups whole or 4 cups slivered.

How To Toast Almonds

Toasting almonds gives them a better flavor, thus enhancing your recipe. Here are three easy methods.
Difficulty Level: easy Time Required: 15 minutes

 Here's How:

Saucepan method:  Place almonds in a heavy, ungreased skillet.Stir often over medium heat until golden brown.

Oven method:  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.   Spread nuts in one layer on ungreased shallow baking pan.  Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden.

Microwave method: Place 1/2 cup slivered almonds and 1 tablespoon margarine or butter in a 9-inch microwave-proof pie plate.  Microwave on high, stirring every minute until brown, 4 to 5 minutes.

Tips:

Toasting of nuts intensifies their flavor.  Toasted nuts are less likely to sink in cake and bread batters.   Almond yields: 1 pound = 3 cups halves or 4 cups slivered.

How To Make Almond Milk

Almond milk is a tasy ingredient used in recipes and also as a beverage. It's easy to make your own at home.
Difficulty Level: easy Time Required: 15 minutes

 Here's How:

Place 1 cup freshly roasted almonds in a glass jar.  Cover with 4 cups water. Tightly close the jar.  Refrigerate for 1 day or no more than 2 days.  Pour into blender and blend until smooth. Strain liquid from pulp through cheesecloth, applying pressure to squeeze out all liquid. Retain the almond paste pulp for other uses.

Tips:

Use almond milk in recipes or as a delicious drink by itself or with a little honey and vanilla.
The almond paste pulp can be used to top cereal, vegetables, or rice.
1 pound shelled almonds = 3 cups halves or 4 cups slivered.

THE VERY FINEST ALMOND PASTE

Put in food processor
1 C. Almonds & 1/2 C. powdered sugar & blend into a paste.
Add one small, frothy egg white, blend.
Add 1 T. water & a sparing drop of almond extract & blend.