The best, natural almond paste should consist only of almonds. This a source of plant protein, fiber and monounsaturated fats. It also provides vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus and copper. These substances are important for the functioning of the circulatory system, nervous system and skin condition.
Regular but moderate consumption of almond paste may support:
- proper functioning of the heart and blood vessels,
- bone mineralization process,
- skin condition thanks to the antioxidant effect of vitamin E.
Additionally, the presence of fiber promotes proper intestinal function and stabilizes appetite. However, you need to keep this in mind caloric content of the product. 100 g of almond paste contains on average 600-620 kcal. One tablespoon (about 10 g) provides about 60 kcal. This means that it is a high-calorie product, but the calories it contains result from the presence of nutrients, not additives such as sugar or palm oil.
It may be difficult to find fully natural almond paste in stores, and if you do, it may be quite expensive. However, I encourage you to do so make it yourself at home, to have full control over the composition and structure.
Only almonds are needed to prepare natural almond paste. It is recommended use 300-500 g of product.
Preparation method:
- Roast the almonds in the oven at 160-170°C for about 8-12 minutes. Roasting facilitates subsequent grinding and improves the aroma.
- After removing from the oven, the almonds should cool down slightly.
- Then grind them in a high-power blender. The process takes a few minutes – the mass gradually changes consistency until it becomes a creamy paste.
- The finished paste should be placed in a tightly closed jar and stored in the refrigerator. The separation of the fat layer on the surface is a natural phenomenon – just mix the product before use.
There is no need to add sugar, sweeteners or oil.
In most cases, safe and A reasonable amount is 1-2 tablespoons a daye. This allows you to benefit from the nutritional value of the product without excessively increasing the caloric value of the diet. People should be careful:
- with nut allergy,
- during reducing diets,
- with gastrointestinal diseases if products rich in fat cause symptoms.
Almond paste can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is most often used:
- as a substitute for classic butter on bread,
- as an addition to oatmeal, groats and cocktails,
- in desserts and baked goods,
- in sauces, especially in vegetarian and vegan cuisine,
- as an addition to coffee to obtain a creamier consistency.
You can also consume it on its own in small portions, and it is worth it, because monounsaturated fatty acids contained in almonds support the maintenance of normal cholesterol levels and promote the health of blood vessels. Magnesium, calcium and phosphorus are important for bones, and vitamin E has an antioxidant function – it helps protect cells against oxidative stress, which is important for the appearance and regeneration of the skin.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
