Hazelnuts are wild nuts that grow in clusters on hazel trees. They are believed to be good for health as they are rich in protein, complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, iron, calcium and vitamin E. They are very low in sodium and sugar and contain no cholesterol. Over 80 per cent of the total fat in hazelnuts is mono-unsaturated. They have a bitter brown skin that is ideally removed before using in recipes by heating them at 150 degree C for 10-15 minutes, until the skin begins to flake. The nuts are then rubbed between a soft cloth. They should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent them from getting rancid.
Hazelnut has several important health benefits. It helps protect against diseases as it has a unique combination of oleic acid rich oil, proteins, carbohydrate, beta-sitosterol, essential vitamins and minerals. Consuming only 25 gm of hazelnuts a day, fulfils one’s daily vitamin E needs and is a good way of protecting against heart-vein diseases. Vitamin E also prevents the disintegration of red blood cells hence protecting against anaemia.
Now, for a recipe.
Hot and Sweet Hazelnuts
Ingredients
Cooking oil: 2 tbsp
Hazelnuts, husked: 200 gm
Demerara sugar: 50 gm
Fresh thyme, coarsely chopped: 10 gm
Tabasco sauce: 5 dashes
Salt, to taste
Method: Preheat oven to 165 degree C. Brush a baking pan with oil. Mix hazelnuts, demerara sugar, thyme, salt, and Tabasco sauce in a bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
Transfer to prepared baking pan. Roast until the sugar melts and coats the nuts, for about 15 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a lightly greased plate and cool completely. Break apart any hazelnut lumps and store in an airtight container.
Executive Chef
Taj Coromandel
