1. Ever wonder where the saying “Are you nuts?!” originated? Or why is that word often connected to
being a fool or losing one’s mind? Well, if you love the flavor, texture and nutritive value of these
protein rich morsels brimming with nature’s goodness, then you’ll agree that it’s easy to fall in love
with (or get crazy over) their great taste. Perhaps their hardness could also be linked to the saying as
being nutty is also related sometimes to stubbornness.
In culinary terminology, the definition is not as restrictive as
in the botanical definition which classify that nuts come from
a specific part of a plant that becomes very hard at their
mature state. In cooking, pretty much any seed or large oily
kernel enclosed in a shell may be considered a nut.
Due to their generally high unsaturated (good) fat and protein
content, these are highly regarded as an excellent energy
source. Health buffs snack on handfuls of them or as part of a
trail mix with dried fruit rather than opening a bag of chips.
The good fat they contain has been linked to a lower incidence
of cardiovascular problems. Their generally low-glycemic quality also makes it a good food for
diabetics.
Though considered as a healthy food group, nuts should still be consumed in moderation as these
still are high in calories and excessive consumption can result in weight gain and elevated uric acid
levels which can result in gout. Combine their consumption with a balanced diet of fruits and
vegetables, carbohydrate and protein. Care should be taken as well if you have allergies towards
them and the wide variety of foods they are found in. Read food packaging which indicates if the
items are made in a facility that processes nuts.
Vegetarians and vegans, particularly raw foodists, recommend that certain raw nuts (usually those
with a brown skin or peel) be soaked, drained and dehydrated prior to consumption to remove
mildly toxic enzyme inhibitors found in the peel. Roasting as well as other forms of heating should
be avoided to maximize the nutrients.
Almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashew, macadamias and pistachios are only a few among the most
popular nuts consumed in many parts of the world. These and others can be incorporated into
countless dishes like soups, salads, main courses, desserts and drinks. Milk can even be made from
almonds and cashew and replace animal sources of this high-protein beverage.
Using nuts on cooking:
recette omelette aux truffles
cocktail bellini
gateau moelleux aux noix