How do you trim nuts like almonds if needed (such as blanching to remove skins)?

Question

Learn How do you trim nuts like almonds if needed (such as blanching to remove skins).

Answer 1

To trim almonds, blanch them in boiling water for about a minute to loosen the skins, then drain, cool, and slip the skins off. You can then chop or slice the blanched almonds as needed.

Detailed Explanation:

Blanching is the most common method for removing the skins from almonds, making them easier to trim and use in recipes. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Make sure there's enough water to fully submerge the almonds.

2. Add Almonds: Add the almonds to the boiling water. Boil them for approximately 60 seconds (1 minute). Don't over-boil, as this can make the almonds mushy.

3. Drain and Cool: Immediately drain the almonds in a colander. Rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down enough to handle.

4. Slip the Skins: Gently squeeze each almond between your thumb and forefinger. The skin should easily slip off. If the skins are stubborn, you may need to blanch them for a few more seconds.

5. Dry the Almonds: Spread the blanched almonds on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and pat them dry. This prevents them from clumping together if you plan to chop or slice them.

6. Chop or Slice: Now that the almonds are blanched and dried, you can chop or slice them according to your recipe's requirements. Use a sharp knife for best results.

Pro Tip:

After blanching and peeling, toast the almonds in a dry skillet or oven to enhance their flavor and add a satisfying crunch. Toasting also helps to dry them out completely, preventing them from becoming soft or stale.