Almond flour is a nut flour derived from blanched almonds that have been finely pulverised. Blanching involves temporarily immersing the almonds in boiling water to remove the skins, resulting in almond flour with a more uniform colour and texture. Almond flour is high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and monounsaturated fats, which can aid in cholesterol reduction. Almond flour, unlike all-purpose flour and other milled flour, is grain-free, gluten-free, and low in carbs, making it an ideal choice for those who have dietary limitations. While this low-carb flour cannot be used to make an airy loaf of sourdough bread, it is a popular flour substitute in many gluten-free baking recipes and classic French pastry recipes. A modest amount of sugar added to your homemade almond flour recipe can keep it from turning into almond butter.
Almond Flour Uses
You may use handmade almond flour in a variety of sweet and savoury recipes, including:
1. French macarons: Macarons are gluten-free almond meringue cookies sandwiched between two layers of ganache, buttercream, or jam. The chewiness of these cookies is due to the use of almond flour.
2. Chocolate chip cookies: Substitute almond flour for some of the wheat flour in your favourite cookie recipe for a nuttier, chewier cookie.
3. Brownies: A classic pairing of nuts and chocolate. Using almond flour instead of (or in addition to) wheat flour results in more softness than cakey brownies.
4. Quick breads: When combined with wheat flour, a small amount of almond flour keeps quick breads soft and light while providing a nuttiness.
5. Pancakes and waffles: Almond flour is frequently used in a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free versions of these morning mainstays.
6. Gravies and sauces: Finely ground almonds and cashews are often used in India to thicken stews and gravies.
Ingredients-
• 1 cup blanched slivered almonds
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Method-
1. In a food processor, coffee grinder, or powerful blender, combine sugar and almonds in the bowl.
2. Nuts and sugar should be finely ground.
3. You can freeze it for up to two months or keep it in the refrigerator for up to one month.
