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.
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
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.
Summary
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!