Almonds are a delicious and nutritious nut, but their skins can be a pain to deal with.
Blanching is a simple process that loosens the skins, making them easy to remove.
Blanched almonds have a smoother texture and are perfect for use in recipes like marzipan, homemade nut butters, almond milk, and pesto.
Blanched almonds are a pale ivory colour compared to their brown, papery skin.
They have a smooth, matte texture and a slightly more intense almond flavour.
How to blanch Almonds
Blanching almonds is a great way to remove their skins and make them easier to use in recipes.
Learn how to blanch almonds with this step-by-step guide.
Learn how to blanch almonds with this step-by-step guide.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Colander
- Bowl
- Kitchen towel (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds
- water
Instructions
Bring the Water to a Boil:
- Fill your saucepan with enough water to cover the almonds. Do not add the almonds yet.
- Bring the water to a rolling Boil over high heat.
Blanch the Almonds:
- Once boiling, add the 1 cup raw almonds to the water.
- Cook for exactly 1 minute. Don't overcook, or the almonds will soften.
Drain and Cool:
- Immediately drain the almonds in a colander.
- Rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
Slip Off the Skins:
- While the almonds are still warm, pinch them gently between your thumb and forefinger.
- The skins should easily slip off, revealing the smooth nut underneath.
- You can use a kitchen towel for better grip, if needed.
Note:
- If a few skins are stubborn, simply return the almonds to the hot water for a few seconds, then try again.
Notes
Tips
Blanching almonds is a quick and easy process that yields beautiful, skinless almonds perfect for a variety of recipes and snacks. So ditch the store-bought, pre-blanched almonds and try this method yourself!
- Blanched almonds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
- If you're blanching a large quantity of almonds, you may need to blanch them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
Uses for Blanched Almonds
- Baking:
- Use blanched almonds in biscuits/cookies, cakes, muffins, and pastries.
Nut Butters: Make your own almond butter or almond milk with blanched almonds. - Snacks:
- Enjoy blanched almonds on their own or chopped up and added to yoghurt, oatmeal, or trail mix.
Blanching almonds is a quick and easy process that yields beautiful, skinless almonds perfect for a variety of recipes and snacks. So ditch the store-bought, pre-blanched almonds and try this method yourself!
This is great for my baking projects