How To Roast Almonds: Your Guide To Perfectly Roasted Australian Almonds

Roasting almonds can bring out their rich flavour and add a unique crunchy texture to your dishes. Australian almonds are some of the most flavoursome in the world, and when you know how to roast them correctly, they can make any dish taste perfect. In this article, we will show you how to source the best Australian almonds, prepare them for roasting and store them once they have been roasted. Plus, check out how to enjoy roasted almonds with some delicious recipes to get you creating in the kitchen today!
Written by Elise Goldsworthy
Bachelor of Health Science (NUTRITIONAL MEDICINE)
August 25, 2023

Sourcing the Best Australian Almonds

When it comes to sourcing almonds, you want to make sure that you're getting the highest quality. Australia proudly boasts some of the best quality, premium almonds that are exported around the world. Ensure that your almonds are from Australia and have been grown using the best practices for almond farming. If possible, try to buy organic or biodynamic almonds if available as these will give you the most flavourful roasted almonds. 

The Importance of Choosing Organic Almonds

Opting for organic almonds is not just beneficial for your health but also for the environment. Organic almonds are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, which means you're consuming a product free from harmful chemicals. Studies have shown these toxic substances can have detrimental effects on our health when consumed regularly. From an environmental perspective, organic farming practices promote biodiversity, improve soil health, and reduce water pollution. Hence, when you choose organic, you're not only investing in your health but also contributing to a more sustainable planet.

How To Roast Almonds: Step-by-Step Guide 

Follow these easy steps to get perfectly roasted almonds every time:

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C. This temperature ensures your almonds will roast evenly without burning.
  2. Prepare your almonds. Make sure your almonds are clean and free from any debris. You can choose to pre-soak them and remove the skins, however, keeping the skins on can give a more pronounced roasted flavour and texture.
  3. Arrange the almonds on a baking tray. Spread your almonds out in a single layer on a baking tray. This allows heat to circulate evenly around each almond, resulting in a uniform roast.
  4. Roast the almonds. Place the baking tray in the oven and roast your almonds for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. It's crucial to keep a close eye on them to prevent over-roasting or burning.
  5. Check the almonds. Around the 10-minute mark, start checking your almonds. They should be a golden brown colour when done. Remember, the almonds will continue to roast a bit after they're removed from the oven due to residual heat.
  6. Cool the almonds. Once your almonds have achieved the desired roast, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool. Once cooled off, they're ready to use or store!

Remember, roasting times can vary based on your oven and the size of the almonds, so it's essential to monitor them closely.

How To Store Roasted Almonds

Once roasted, you can store almonds in an airtight container away from direct light and heat, for up to three months. You want to avoid exposure to heat, light and air as this can cause the almonds to turn rancid and become bitter. If stored correctly, the flavour and crunch of your almonds will be retained. To refresh their crunchy texture, simply pop some back into a preheated oven for a few minutes. 

Flaked and roasted almonds spread out on a board.

Nutrients & Health Benefits of Roasted Almonds

Not only are roasted almonds delicious, but they offer a range of health benefits too. Almonds are a great source of plant-based protein and gut-loving fibre, which can help to keep you feeling full for longer. They are also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium and phosphorus. Plus, they contain healthy monounsaturated omega-3 fats as well as plant sterols that promote heart health and reduce cholesterol levels.

Almonds are packed with a multitude of health benefits that make them a great addition to any diet. Here's a snapshot of the health benefits of roasted almonds:

  1. Rich in Antioxidants: Almonds are a fantastic source of antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress that can cause inflammation, ageing, and diseases like cancer.
  2. High in Vitamin E: Almonds are among the world's best sources of Vitamin E, which can help protect your cells from damage, boost your immune system, and reduce your risk of heart disease.
  3. Contains Healthy Fats: While high in fat, the type found in almonds is monounsaturated fats, known to benefit heart health and reduce bad cholesterol levels.
  4. Aids in Blood Sugar Control: Almonds are low in carbs but high in healthy fats, proteins, and fibre, making them an ideal choice for those with diabetes. The high level of magnesium also helps improve insulin function.
  5. Supports Weight Loss: The fibre and protein in almonds can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing food cravings and supporting weight loss. 
  6. Promotes Gut Health: Eating almonds can increase beneficial gut bacteria, promoting digestive health and immune health as a result.
  7. Supports Bone Health: Almonds are rich in calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health.

Incorporating roasted almonds into your meals is not just a tasty choice, but a nutritious one that promotes overall health.

How To Enjoy Roasted Almonds Every Day

Roasted almonds, with their crunchy texture and intense flavour, can be a splendid addition to numerous dishes. Here are a few innovative ways to incorporate them into your meals:

  • Roasted Almond Salad: Add a crunchy twist to your green salad by tossing in some roasted almonds. The nutty aroma and texture of the roasted almonds will complement the fresh greens impeccably.
  • Almond-Crusted Fish or Chicken: Replace breadcrumbs with finely crushed roasted almonds to create a crunchy, flavorful crust for fish or chicken. The almonds add a layer of sophistication and a delightful crunch.
  • Roasted Almond Butter: Why not make your own almond butter? Blend the roasted almonds until they turn into a creamy, smooth butter. Perfect for spreading on toast or as a dip for fruits.
  • Almond-studded Rice Pilaf: Stir roasted almonds into your rice pilaf for a delightful contrast of textures. This is a common practice in Middle Eastern cuisine and is sure to impress your guests.
  • Granola with Roasted Almonds: mix oats, honey and cinnamon then top with some roasted almonds for a healthy breakfast option. 

Remember, with roasted almonds, a small addition can make a world of difference, levelling up your dishes in terms of both texture and flavour.

Roasted Almond Recipes

Recipes

Pear and Roasted Almond Crumble

This warm, comforting dessert combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the rich, nutty flavour of roasted almonds. Topped with a golden, crumbly topping, this is the perfect ending to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 5 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and cut into slices
  • 1 cup sugar, divided
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup roasted almonds, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
  • Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C. In a large bowl, combine the pear slices, 1/2 cup sugar, and cinnamon. Toss until the pears are evenly coated. Transfer the mix to a baking dish.
  2. In another bowl, combine the remaining sugar, flour, oats, and roasted almonds. Add in the cold butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mix resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the top of the pears. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pears are tender.
  4. Let the crumble cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pear and Roasted Almond Crumble!

Roasted Almond & Dried Blueberry Bread

With almond butter, flaked roasted almonds and a dusting of almond flour, this bread is a great way to celebrate the flavour and richness of roasted almonds every day. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, high in fibre and full of healthy fats. What's even better is that it's very easy to put together. 

Ingredients

Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C and grease a 20 cm loaf pan with olive oil and dust it with almond flour.
  2. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to combine almond butter, olive oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine arrowroot powder, salt, and baking soda.
  4. Blend the arrowroot mixture into the wet ingredients until everything is thoroughly combined.
  5. Gently fold in the apricots, blueberries, seeds, and sliced almonds.
  6. Transfer the batter to the loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining sliced almonds on top.
  7. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 1 hour, then serve.

Roasted Almond and Cherry Florentines

Florentines are a classic seasonal treat that combines nuts, fruit, and chocolate. This recipe uses perfectly roasted almonds and pairs them with cherries for a sweet and tart kick.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of roasted almonds, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup of dried cherries or glacé cherries, chopped
  • 3/4 cup of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of flour
  • 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup of honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract
  • 200g of dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C and line two baking sheets with baking paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted almonds and dried or glacé cherries. Stir in the sugar and flour until everything is well coated.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the honey and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
  4. Pour the hot honey mixture over the almond and cherry mix, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  5. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking trays, leaving space between each for spreading. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  7. Let the Florentines cool on the baking trays for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Once the Florentines are cool, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water. Dip the flat side of each Florentine into the chocolate and leave to set, chocolate-side up, on a clean piece of baking paper.

Roasted Almond-Crusted Barramundi with Wilted Greens and Cauliflower Puree

This dish perfectly combines the crunchy texture of roasted almond crust with the tender flavour of barramundi. Served with wilted greens and a silky cauliflower puree, it's a nutritious and delectable meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 barramundi fillets
  • 1 cup roasted almonds, finely crushed
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Olive oil, for frying
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, chard, kale)
  • 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower puree. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender. In a blender, combine the cooked cauliflower, milk, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Barramundi. Dip each fillet into the beaten egg, then coat in the crushed roasted almonds. Heat some olive oil in a pan and sear the barramundi on each side until golden and cooked through.
  3. While the fish is cooking, quickly wilt the greens in a separate pan with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. To serve, spoon some cauliflower puree onto each plate, top with a handful of wilted greens, and then place the almond-crusted barramundi on top. Enjoy your perfectly balanced and nutritious meal!

Article References

References

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