Almonds

Almonds are the quiet strength of the nut world—crunchy, subtly sweet, and grounding. They carry the warmth of sun-soaked orchards, the gentle bitterness of skin balanced by creamy richness within. Almonds embody nourishment that is both sustaining and elevating, bridging earth and energy with every bite.

VOLUME
Moderate

FLAVOR PAIRINGS
Vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, clove, allspice, star anise, cacao, cacao nibs, coconut, coconut cream, coconut sugar, maple syrup, date syrup, agave, jaggery, molasses, banana, apple, pear, peach, apricot, plum, prune, fig, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, cranberry, pomegranate, mango, papaya, pineapple, passionfruit, orange, lemon, lime, tangerine, yuzu, rosewater, orange blossom, hibiscus, chamomile, lavender, mint, basil, thyme, rosemary, sage, tarragon, coriander, cumin, fennel, sesame, tahini, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, cashews, pecans, pistachios, macadamia, oats, quinoa, rice, millet, buckwheat, amaranth, plant-based milk, oat milk, coconut yogurt, plant yogurt, cashew cream, vegan butter, coconut oil, avocado oil, walnut oil, almond oil, tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, lentils, green beans, spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, zucchini, carrot, pumpkin, sweet potato, chocolate, vegan desserts, vegan smoothies, vegan smoothie bowls, vegan elixirs, vegan puddings, plant-based pastries, and granolas.

SELECTING
Choose raw, organic almonds with firm texture and sweet aroma. Avoid shriveled, dark, or rancid nuts. Blanched almonds are convenient for baking and plant-based creams but remove the skin’s slight bitterness and fiber.

HOW TO USE
Snack raw or roasted, grind into flour for baking, blend into nut milks, butters, and creams, or add to salads, granolas, and desserts. Pair with fruits, spices, or chocolate to highlight both sweetness and depth.

STORING
Store raw almonds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration extends freshness; freezer storage preserves them for months.

SUBSTITUTIONS
Cashews, macadamia nuts, or pecans for similar texture and richness.

HEALTH BENEFITS
High in healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants. Supports heart health, satiety, and stable energy. Energetically, almonds promote grounding, balance, and steady nourishment.

CONCERNS
Avoid over-roasting, which can reduce nutrient integrity and produce bitter notes. People with nut allergies must avoid.

HISTORY
Cultivated for thousands of years across the Middle East and Mediterranean, almonds were prized as symbols of fertility, prosperity, and nourishment. Today, they remain a versatile cornerstone of both sweet and savory plant-based cuisine.