Auperfood: Almonds

A hand full of this dry fruit represents about 160 calories and a generous amount of anti-oxidants. The fruits can help prevent high cholesterol levels, reduce the sensation of being hungry (leading to weight loss) and help control blood pressure. However, you can only get the most out of almonds when you buy them as whole as possible, not blanched and peeled.

Versatile and delicious for savoury or sweet dishes, or even better eaten ‘au natural’, Almonds are an incredible Superfood that tastes just as good as it is beneficial to the overall wellness of the body. But today we have a special suggestion to enjoy all of the benefits of this delicious ingredient in a even healthier way, making a substitute for saturated greasy spreads with a Almond Butter recipe by Stacey from www.goodenessis.com

Toasted Almond Butter

Ingredients:
Makes approximately 2 cups

4 cups whole raw organic almonds
1/4 teaspoon of salt (optional)

Recipe:

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.

Spread the almonds out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 12 – 15 minutes until fragrant and they are just starting to brown lightly inside, be careful not to over roast them. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool.

Transfer the almonds to a food processor; add the salt and blend, using the highest setting for 1 – 2 minutes to grind them to a powder. Scrape down the sides of the container. The whole process takes between 12 to 18 minutes, or until the oils are fully released, all depending on the machine you are using, the quality & quantity of the almonds and how well they are roasted.

Almond butter needs to sit for an hour or two after making it for the flavors to intensify and come together. Store in a jar in the fridge and use within one month.