Aster Annual Calendar 2024

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ALMOND

If you want a nutty indulgence, have some Almonds

Fun facts about Almonds

  • Almonds have ancient origins and significance, cited in texts like the Bible and ancient Egyptian writings for their health benefits.

  • Almond shells, a byproduct of processing, are used for animal bedding, composting, abrasives and renewable energy.

  • Almond trees belong to the Rosaceae family, along with roses, cherries, apricots and peaches.

  • In Chinese culture, almonds symbolise luck and prosperity during the Lunar New Year, often featured in dishes and desserts.

  • Almonds come in two main types: sweet almonds, commonly eaten, and bitter almonds, used in flavourings due to their cyanide content.

What to check while buying a packet of Almonds

Quality

Look for almonds that appear plump, uniform in size and free from discolouration, mould, or signs of spoilage.

Ingredients

If purchasing flavoured or seasoned almonds, review the ingredient list to check for any added sugars, oils or artificial additives.

Certifications

Look for certifications such as USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Fair Trade for sustainable and organic almonds.

Health Benefits of Almonds

Rich in Monounsaturated Fats

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Improves Cognitive Function

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Prevents Oxidative Damage

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Loaded with Essential
Minerals

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Helps with Energy Boost

Two quick and easy Almond recipes

Recipe 1:  Almond-crusted Baked Chicken Tenders

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 cup almond meal or almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Directions:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
  • In a shallow dish, mix together almond meal (or almond flour), grated Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
  • Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with the almond meal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Lightly spray the top of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the almond crust is golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve the almond-crusted chicken tenders hot with your favourite dipping sauce on the side.

Recipe 2:  Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

 

Ingredients:

  • Ingredients:
  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil or melted butter
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil or butter, honey or maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
  • Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
  • Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  • Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely
  • Enjoy these delicious almond flour chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk or your favourite hot beverage!

For more easy and healthy Almond recipes watch the video :