Surely more than once we have heard that almonds “make you gain weight” for those who consume them, and while it is true that they contribute certain amounts of calories since they are composed of 52% fat, it is also true that the fat they provide is of the monounsaturated type, meaning it lowers cholesterol and prevents cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, the consumption of almonds provides great health benefits; they contain large amounts of vitamin B, vitamin E, essential minerals such as zinc and calcium, plant proteins, amino acids, and iron. As you can see, the contributions that almonds provide to our health are incredible, which is why we give you some tips below to make cooking them easier.

To roast almonds

In the oven

Preheat the oven to 177° C and line a baking tray with aluminum foil. Slice approximately ½ cup of almonds into slivers and spread a layer of them on the tray, making sure they do not overlap. Let them roast in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Pay attention to the brown color they should take on and the nutty aroma that will fill your kitchen when they are ready. Finally, let them cool.

In the microwave

In a cup, pour ½ teaspoon of butter and ½ cup of almonds so that they are completely covered; then spread the almonds on a microwave-safe plate and form a flat layer. Set the microwave for one minute at a high level. Remove and stir. You can repeat if necessary, be careful with the time, as the almonds roast quickly. Finally, let them cool.

To salt them

In the oven

Place water with salt in a bowl and heat it. Try to use about 4 tablespoons per liter. When the water in the bowl begins to boil, remove it from the heat and add the almonds, they should be covered by the water. Let them sit for 5 to 7 minutes, drain, and pour onto a baking tray. When they start making a slight noise as they bump against each other, give them a stir with a wooden spoon to prevent them from sticking together. Remove and let cool once cooked.

In the microwave

Place raw, peeled almonds in a microwave-safe cup, salt to taste, and cover them. Set the microwave for about 2 minutes. Make sure to stir to achieve uniformity. Heat for another 2 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Peel them easily

Bring plenty of water to a boil, when it boils introduce the almonds, let them blanch for about a minute. Drain and start peeling almond by almond. Using your index and thumb, pinch the tip to break the skin, moving your fingers in opposite directions. This way, the skin of the almond will come off very easily.

We also recommend the following almond recipes:

Almond Cake: http://www.kiwilimon.com/receta/postres/pasteles/pastel-de-almendras?id=762&categoria=Postres&titulo_corto=pastel-de-almendras

Almond and Blackberry Loaf: http://www.kiwilimon.com/receta/postres/panques/panques-con-frutas/panque-de-almendra-y-moras

Rice with Mushrooms and Almonds: http://www.kiwilimon.com/receta/guarniciones/arroz-con-champinones-y-almendras?id=212&categoria=Guarniciones&titulo_corto=arroz-con-champi%C3%83%C2%B1ones-y-almendras

Spaghetti with Lemon Cream and Almonds: http://www.kiwilimon.com/receta/pastas/spagetti-con-crema-de-limon-y-almendras?id=622&categoria=Pastas&titulo_corto=spagetti-con-crema-de-limon-y-almendras