Preparation
There are a few steps that need to be taken in order to properly roast blanched almonds:
- Prepare the almonds. This involves blanching the almonds in boiling water for about 30 seconds and then immediately transferring them to a bowl of cold water. After that, the almonds should be drained and set aside on a towel to dry for a few minutes.
This is the preparation step of roasting blanched almonds.
Gather ingredients and supplies
To roast blanched almonds at home, there are a few ingredients and supplies that you will need.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of blanched almonds
- Salt to taste
Supplies:
- A heat proof bowl or baking dish
- A stove top range or oven
- Kitchen thermometer (optional)
- Cookie sheet with raised rim or baking stone (optional)
- Parchment paper (optional)
It’s best to use blanched almonds if you want a uniform texture and easier roasting process. If your almonds already have skins on them, remove the skins by boiling them for 1 minute and then draining off the boiling water. Rinse them in cold water and pop out the skins with your fingers. Once they’re blanched, drain off any excess moisture from them with paper towels and proceed to the next step.
Rinse and blanch the almonds
Before beginning the process of roasting blanched almonds, it is important to properly prepare them. Start by rinsing the almonds and rubbing them together with your hands to remove any dirt or debris. Use a colander or sieve to rinse off any excess water. After rinsing, spread the almonds out on several paper towels and let them dry for about 10 minutes.
Next, you’ll want to blanch your almonds, which involves placing them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before straining and then transferring them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This method also helps remove the bitter outer layer of skin on each almond. To begin, fill a pot with enough cold water so that when boiled the vegetables will be totally submerged. Boil your almonds for 2-3 minutes before carefully draining and then immediately transferring them into an ice bath or a bowl of very cold water. Let soak for 4-5 minutes before draining and patting dry with paper towels. Once completely dried, they are ready to be roasted!
Roasting
Roasting blanched almonds is a great way to bring out their slightly sweet and nutty flavor. This method of roasting is an easy way to add crunch and flavor to salads and sides.
Let’s take a look at the basics of roasting blanched almonds, so you can start experimenting with different flavors and recipes:
Preheat oven to desired temperature
Preheating your oven to the desired temperature is an important part of roasting food, including blanched almonds. Depending on the recipe and desired outcome, different temperatures can be used. Generally, lower temperatures (like 250-275°F) produce a more even and milder roasted flavor, while higher temperatures (between 300-400°F or higher) will yield a less even but more flavorful roasted result.
It’s important to preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes prior to putting in your blanched almonds in order for an optimal result. To ensure that a consistent temperature is deployed throughout the roasting process, try using two thermometers: one for inside the oven and one for inside the baking sheet with the almonds.
Spread almonds on a baking sheet
Spread your blanched almonds onto an ungreased baking sheet. Be sure to spread out the almonds in a single layer over the entire surface of the baking sheet with no more than one almond overlapping another. This will ensure that your almonds are evenly roasted and turn out crisp and delicious.
If you have a smaller amount of almonds, try using a cake pan instead of a baking sheet for optimal results. If needed, use additional baking sheets or pans to provide plenty of room for even roasting.
Roast almonds for desired time
Roasting your blanched almonds is an easy way to enhance their flavor and bring out their natural nuttiness. All that’s needed is a bit of oil and heat to perfectly roast the almonds to your desired time.
When roasting, you have options depending on the texture you want your almonds to have. For softer texture, roast them for a shorter amount of time. If you prefer crispier or crunchier almonds with more of an “almond-taste,” you should opt for roasting them for a longer period of time.
Once your desired level of roasted-ness has been achieved, remove the pan from the heat and immediately transfer the almonds onto a lined baking sheet or large plate. Doing so will prevent any further cooking and reduce risk of overcooking. This step also helps even out any hot spots from leaving them in the hot pan after roasting is complete. Allow your freshly roasted blanched almonds to cool before consuming or storing for later use!
Flavoring
Roasted blanched almonds have a delicious crunchy texture that is perfect for snacking. One of the best ways to bring out their unique flavor is to season them with spices and herbs. In this article we will explore how to use different flavors to make the most out of your roasted blanched almonds.
This section will discuss the technique for adding flavor to the almonds and providing tips for a successful flavor profile:
Add desired seasonings to the almonds
Adding seasonings to blanched almonds can enhance the flavor and make them even more delicious. When roasting blanched almonds, be sure to select high-quality seasonings that will not only add a unique flavor but also provide added health benefits.
- Salt – Salt is an obvious choice for adding flavor to your easy roasted almonds. It is important to use fine grain sea salt or table salt because coarse grain sea salt can be gritty and doesn’t dissolve as well. You can try a variety of salts including Himalayan Pink Sea Salt, Coarse Kosher Salt, or even flavored salts like garlic salt of smoked sea salt.
- Herbs & Spices – Adding herbs & spices like rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano or paprika are a great way to pack in flavor with a minimal calorie addition. If you’re feeling adventurous you could try other spices like nutmeg, cardamom, fennel seed, cumin etc.
- Sweeteners –Adding sweetener like brown sugar or agave syrup can balance the savory taste of roasted almonds and make them suitable for inclusion in desserts as well as snacks. It will also lend them a golden hue when roasting at high temperatures. Honey is also a good option for using as a sweetener due its natural caramelized-like effect when heated with nuts for baking and cooking purposes; this imparts extra flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
Toss almonds to evenly coat
Once the almonds have been blanched and roasted, you’ll want to evenly coat them in your chosen flavoring. To do this, toss the almonds during this final stage; this will help ensure they are all evenly coated with seasoning. Adding a pinch of salt while tossing the almonds is recommended to bring out their flavor.
You can use a variety of ingredients to flavor the almonds, including honey and different kinds of spices. To make sure that your flavoring sticks to the almonds, it helps to spray them before adding any flavors. A light oil or butter spray is enough and will also give them an extra glossy appearance as they roast in the oven. Once they’re completely coated, place them back on a baking sheet in an even layer before roasting at 350°F until fragrant and golden-brown. Be sure to keep an eye on them during cooking for best results!
Serving
Roasting blanched almonds can be a simple and delicious way to add some crunch and flavor to dishes ranging from salads to baked goods. Roasting blanched almonds is a fairly easy process and once you master the method you can easily customize the flavor to your liking.
Let’s discuss the best serving methods for these roasted blanched almonds:
Let almonds cool before serving
Once the roasted almonds have been removed from the oven and cooled, it is important to let them cool completely in order to enjoy their full flavor. The residual heat which is trapped inside them will continue to cook them and can eventually turn them bitter and dry. Allow the almonds to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving or storing.
When serving, break any clumps apart with your hands or a kitchen utensil. If desired, you may toss the blanched almonds in seasoned salt prior to serving for a savory twist. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month.
Serve as a snack or topping for dishes
Roasted blanched almonds make a great snacking or toasting option for many types of dishes. Not only are they flavorful and crunchy, but they can provide some nutritional benefits as well. They’re a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while still being low in carbohydrates.
Almonds can be used as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt parfaits, stirred into salads or curries, added to stir-fries, sprinkled over ice cream sundaes, thrown into smoothies and protein shakes, chopped up and irresistibly sprinkled on top of homemade granola bars or other baked goods recipes – the options are nearly endless!
If you’re looking for something more savory than sweet topping for your dish, consider roasting them with flavor-packed spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder. You can also experiment with adding different herbs and nuts like rosemary-almond roasted potatoes. For an even more unique experience try adding interesting flavors like cinnamon or cocoa powder to elevate the natural sweetness. The possibilities are endless!