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Are you nuts about nuts? Well good, because there are several types of edible nuts available for your culinary enjoyment. Nuts are rich in fiber and low in saturated fats. Some of the more familiar types of edible nuts include acorns, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, coconuts, filberts/ hazelnuts, macadamias, peanuts (botanically a legume), pecans, pine nuts pistachios, and walnuts. Here’s a brief overview of some of the nuts mentioned.
Types of Edible Nuts - Acorn
The acorn is sometimes referred to as the “oak nut” because it is the nut that comes from the oak tree. The acorn contains a single seed which is encased in a leathery shell. Acorns have been linked to being beneficial in controlling blood sugar levels. Because the acorn contains bitter tannins, the best oak to harvest is the white oak. To remove the tannins, boil the acorns in water for about 1 to 2 minutes. Cut the acorns into quarters when they are cool. Shell the acorns and put them in a blender with water and blend to the consistency of rice. Boil again to remove all final traces of tannin and dry in a dehydrator. Once dried, you can grind the acorns to create flour.
Types of Edible Nuts – Almond
The almond comes from the Almond tree and is a member of the plum family. The almond nut is found inside the mature almond fruit which splits open when it matures. You can eat the almonds raw or roasted – with the skins or blanched without the skins. Store almonds in a cool dark place. There are many health benefits of almonds. They are a great source of vitamin E.
Types of Edible Nuts – Brazil Nut
Brazil Nuts come from the large Brazil nut tree also known as the Castana tree. The Brazil nut is encased in a hard dark brown shell. The actual nut is a dark brown, three-sided seed. The unshelled Brazil nut will keep for about a few months in a cool, dry storage area. Once shelled, Brazil nuts should be kept in a refrigerator. Brazil nuts can be eaten raw and whole as snacks. Or, they can be put in cakes, cookies, candies or salads. Brazil nuts have a high content of zinc.
Types of Edible Nuts – Cashew
If you are wondering “Where do cashews come from?” the cashew nut is the fruit that is produced by the bushy, low-branched cashew tree. The cashews are the edible seeds of this subtropical evergreen tree. All cashews are removed from their shells, which are called cashew “apples.” Once removed, they must be treated to remove the natural caustic oil. This is a naturally occurring toxic resin that must be removed before they are edible. It is best to refrigerate cashews because they are highly perishable. Cashews can be eaten as snacks, in trail mix, in salads or in sweet treats. Cashews are also a good source of zinc.
Types of Edible Nuts – Chestnut
The chestnut comes from the chestnut tree, Castanea sativa. Most chestnuts are imported from Japan, Italy, Spain and China. Chestnuts are very starchy nuts. They contain twice as much starch as potatoes. These nuts are harvested between October and March. The best month for chestnuts is December. This of course brings to mind the lyrics of a well-loved Christmas carol – “chestnuts roasting on an open fire...”
Pick the chestnuts that are smooth and glossy and store in a cool, dry area. If you are wondering how to roast chestnuts, simply use a knife to cut an “X” on the flat side of the nut. Next, place the nuts on a baking sheet and place in the oven at about 400 degrees F. Let roast for about 15-20 minutes and serve hot.
Types of Edible Nuts – Coconut
Coconuts come from the Coconut Palm Tree. Coconuts thrive in tropical areas like Hawaii, Florida and Thailand. To get to the edible coconut juice and the white, fleshy meat, you must crack open the hard outer husk. The coconut can be eaten when it is still green as a young coconut. Or, the coconut can be eaten when it has become mature with a brownish, hairy outer shell. Much research has been done on the health benefits of coconuts. Many studies have shown that coconut water is high in electrolytes. And, coconut meat has anti-viral and antibacterial properties. The coconut can be eaten as is or you can make delicious smoothies, soups and even coconut ice cream!
Now, that you have some information on different types of edible nuts, go nutty and try them all. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. They make great tasting energy snacks. Let your culinary imagination run wild and create some great dishes using these many types of edible nuts. Bon appétit.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Check out the Health and Nutrition category for more health and nutrition articles.
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