Choosing the right Almond…

Rich, crunchy and gorgeous – Brown cased almonds (badaam) believe to be almost 19000 year old are considered the next big ‘superfood‘ because of their unbelievable nutrient profile.  

 Nutrient Profile –

Almonds are rich in nutrients like vitamin E, dietary fibers, omega 3 fatty acids and proteins. They’re high on protein so they keep you full for longer and they’re rich in manganese which helps strengthen bones and regulate blood sugar. They’re extremely helpful for those with blood pressure problems and also help muscle and nerve function.

 

 Variety of almonds available in India-

There are three prominent types of almonds available in India- Mamra,Gurbandi and California.

Customers like you and I, very happily reach for the almond packet that is nicely wrapped and get the most satisfaction eating them. But the thing we ignore the most is the actual nutrient content inside each almond.

 Choosing the right Almond-

Let me start singing the praises of  Mamra– it has Carbohydrate content, more oil & therefore more calories than the other two. Though it has lesser protein content as compared to California almond. What makes it first choice is the method of production. Mamra are cultivated organically without using chemicals. Best for the growing kids.

California- almonds are sweeter in taste because of chemical processing .It’s ideal for cooking and garnishing.

Gurbandi-almonds are also rich in nutrients, gives abundant energy and are rich in antioxidant.

 

Raw Almonds vs Soaked Almonds

Choosing between soaked almonds and raw almonds isn’t just a matter of taste, it’s about picking the healthier option.  My mother use to always insist on soaked ones and now I understand it better. Why soaked almonds are better?  Firstly, the brown peel of almonds contains tannin which inhibits nutrient absorption. Once you soak almonds the peel comes off easily and allows the nut to release all nutrients easily.

Benefits of soaked almonds:

1. Help with digestion– Soaking almonds helps in releasing enzymes which in turn help with digestion. Soaking almonds releases enzyme lipase which is beneficial for digestion of fats. 

2. Help with weight-loss– The monounsaturated fats in almonds curb your appetite and keep you full. So feel free to snack on them because they’ll help you avoid binge-eating and trigger weight-loss.  

3. Almonds keep your heart healthy, reduce bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein) and increase good cholesterol (high density lipoprotein). 

4. They are a good source of antioxidants: Vitamin E present in soaked almonds works as an antioxidant which inhibits free radical damage that prevents ageing and inflammation. 

5. Fight Cancer: Soaked almonds contain Vitamin B17 which is vital for fighting cancer. 

6. Flavonoid present in almonds suppresses tumor growth. 

7. Help in lowering and maintaining glucose levels and regulating high blood pressure. (Eat nuts to control blood sugar and fat) 

8. Soaked almonds contain folic acid.

 

Badam soup recipe: (Serves two)

Ingredients – Handful of soaked almonds for 8-10 hrs.

                          Milk 300 ml(room temp)

                          Salt to taste

                         Butter 1tsp

                        Corn flour 1tsp.

Preparation- Coarsely grind the soaked almonds in mixer. Keep cauldron on flame add butter, to this add corn flour stir till (do not let it turn brown). Add milk stir it well, add grinded almonds, sprinkle pinch of salt and pepper. Bring it to boil, tastes best when served hot.

Enjoy snacking… stay healthy and fit…