hazelnuts - 25g
Hazelnuts are rich in monounsaturated fats and are an excellent source of vitamin E, copper, and magnesium. They provide dietary fiber and plant-based protein, making them a nutrient-dense addition to both sweet and savory dishes.
About
The hazelnut (Corylus avellana) is the edible nut of the hazel tree, a deciduous shrub native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The nut is enclosed in a hard, smooth shell and contains a creamy, oil-rich kernel with a mild, slightly sweet, and subtly earthy flavor. Hazelnuts vary in size and shape depending on cultivar, with notable varieties including Barcelona, Filbert, and Lamberta. The kernel's composition is approximately 60% fat, making it naturally rich and flavorful, with a texture ranging from tender to slightly firm depending on age and storage conditions.
Hazelnut production involves harvesting mature nuts in autumn, drying them to reduce moisture content, and cracking or blanching to remove the papery brown skin. The nuts develop their characteristic flavor through both genetics and the enzymatic changes that occur during ripening and storage.
Culinary Uses
Hazelnuts are widely employed in both sweet and savory applications across European, Mediterranean, and modern global cuisines. They are essential to confectionery, appearing in spreads like Nutella, pralines, nougat, and chocolate-hazelnut combinations. In baking, ground or chopped hazelnuts add texture and richness to cakes, cookies, biscotti, and pastries. The nuts are also pressed into oil for dressings and finishing, and feature prominently in Turkish, Italian, and French cooking. Beyond sweets, hazelnuts complement roasted vegetables, grain salads, and poultry dishes. Blanched hazelnuts (with skin removed) are preferred for delicate applications, while roasted, unblanched nuts provide deeper flavor for rustic preparations.