Almonds Almonds primarily originate from the Mediterranean countries and California. Only sweet almonds are suitable for consumption however. They are used, among other things, in the manufacture of the ever-popular marzipan.
Bitter almonds contain toxic prussic acid. They grow on the same trees as sweet almonds and in terms of appearance scarcely differ from sweet almonds. Bitter almonds are used in the manufacture of aromas. In this form they may also be contained in small, yet perfectly safe, amounts in marzipan.
Macadamia nut The Macadamia nut is also often known as the Australian nut due to the fact that it originates from there. Although the Macadamia nut is larger and rounder, its shape is reminiscent of the hazelnut. Its taste is creamy, aromatic and mildly sweet. Generally expensive, the kernels of the Macadamia nut are sold untreated, roasted or salted.
|