Almond meal facts for kids
Almond meal, also called almond flour or ground almond, is a special ingredient made from finely ground sweet almonds. Think of it like flour, but made from nuts instead of grains! Almond flour is usually made from almonds that have had their skins removed (called blanched almonds). Almond meal, however, can be made from either blanched almonds or whole almonds with their skins still on. It feels a bit coarser than regular wheat flour, more like corn meal.
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What is Almond Meal Used For?
Almond meal is a popular ingredient in baking and making sweets. It's used to create delicious treats like almond macarons and macaroons. You can also find it in the fillings of many cakes and pies, such as the famous Sachertorte.
It is one of the main ingredients in marzipan and almond paste, which are sweet, dough-like mixtures used in candies and decorations. In France, almond meal is key to making frangipane. This is a tasty filling often found in the traditional galette des Rois cake, which is eaten during the Epiphany holiday.
Why is Almond Meal Popular?
Almond meal has become very popular, especially for people who follow low-carbohydrate diets. It's a great alternative to wheat flour in many recipes. When you bake with almond meal, it adds a wonderful moistness and a rich, nutty flavor to your treats. Because it's made from almonds, baked goods made with almond meal tend to be quite filling and provide a good amount of energy.
Almonds and Healthy Fats
Almonds are full of healthy fats called polyunsaturated fats. They also contain vitamin E, which is good for you. When almonds are whole, their skin and vitamin E help protect these fats. But when almonds are ground into meal, more of their surface is exposed. This means it's a good idea to store almond meal in a cool, dark place to keep it fresh.
See also
In Spanish: Harina de almendra para niños
