What To Know
- Almond meal is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from baking to making homemade nut milk.
- Blanched almond meal has a lighter, more appealing color than unblanched almond meal, making it a better choice for recipes where the color of the final product is important.
- Once the almond meal is dry, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Almond meal is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from baking to making homemade nut milk. But did you know that blanching almond meal can significantly enhance its texture and flavor? Blanching removes the bitter skin from the almonds, resulting in a smoother, more neutral-tasting meal that is perfect for baking and other culinary creations.
The Benefits of Blanching Almond Meal
Blanching almond meal offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Texture: The skin of almonds contains tannins, which can give the meal a slightly bitter taste and a gritty texture. Blanching removes the skin, resulting in a smoother, silkier meal that is ideal for delicate baked goods like cakes and cookies.
- Improved Flavor: Blanched almond meal has a more neutral flavor, allowing the other flavors in your recipe to shine through. This is particularly important when using almond meal in desserts, where you want the sweetness of the recipe to be the star.
- Lighter Color: Blanched almond meal has a lighter, more appealing color than unblanched almond meal, making it a better choice for recipes where the color of the final product is important.
How to Blanch Almond Meal: A Step-by-Step Guide
Blanching almond meal is a simple process that can be done at home with just a few basic ingredients and tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Almond meal
- Large pot
- Colander
- Ice bath (large bowl filled with ice water)
- Kitchen towel
2. Prepare the Almond Meal:
- Measure out the desired amount of almond meal.
3. Boil the Water:
- Fill the pot with enough water to cover the almond meal by a few inches.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil.
4. Blanch the Almond Meal:
- Carefully pour the almond meal into the boiling water.
- Stir gently to ensure all the meal is submerged.
- Allow the meal to blanch for 1-2 minutes.
5. Drain and Cool:
- Using the colander, drain the almond meal and immediately transfer it to the ice bath.
- Allow the meal to cool completely in the ice bath.
6. Dry the Almond Meal:
- Once the meal is cool, spread it out on a kitchen towel to dry.
- Allow it to air dry for a few hours, or until all the moisture is absorbed.
Tips for Perfect Blanched Almond Meal
- Don’t Over-Blanch: Over-blanching can make the almond meal mushy. Stick to the recommended blanching time of 1-2 minutes.
- Use Fresh Almond Meal: For best results, use freshly ground almond meal. If you’re using pre-ground almond meal, it’s important to check the expiration date and make sure it’s still fresh.
- Store Properly: Once the almond meal is dry, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Blanched almond meal will keep for several months.
Beyond Baking: Other Uses for Blanched Almond Meal
While blanching almond meal is primarily known for its baking applications, its versatility extends far beyond cakes and cookies. Here are some other ways to use blanched almond meal:
- Homemade Nut Milk: Create a creamy, delicious nut milk by blending blanched almond meal with water and a pinch of salt.
- Gluten-Free Flour Substitute: Blanched almond meal is a great gluten-free flour substitute for baking bread, muffins, and pancakes.
- Thickening Agent: The high protein content of blanched almond meal makes it an excellent thickening agent for sauces and soups.
- Breadcrumbs: Pulse blanched almond meal in a food processor to create a crumbly texture perfect for coating chicken, fish, or vegetables.
The Final Word: Why Blanching Makes All the Difference
Blanching almond meal is a simple yet transformative step that significantly elevates the texture and flavor of this versatile ingredient. By removing the bitter skin, you unlock a smoother, more neutral-tasting meal that enhances your culinary creations. Whether you’re baking, making nut milk, or exploring other creative uses, blanching almond meal is a game-changer for achieving delicious results.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I blanch almond flour instead of almond meal?
A: While you can blanch almond flour, it’s not necessary. Almond flour is already finely ground, so the skin is less noticeable.
Q: Can I use unblanched almond meal in recipes?
A: You can use unblanched almond meal, but it will impart a slightly bitter taste to your recipe.
Q: How long can I store blanched almond meal?
A: Blanched almond meal can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for several months.
Q: Is blanching almond meal necessary?
A: While not strictly necessary, blanching almond meal significantly improves its texture and flavor, making it a more desirable ingredient for many recipes.
Q: Can I blanch almond meal in the microwave?
A: It is not recommended to blanch almond meal in the microwave. The high heat can cause the almond meal to burn or become unevenly cooked.
