Top 10 best Hazelnuts products

Hazelnuts: Everything You Need To Know

Have you ever pondered the source of Nutella's delightful earthy and nutty flavor? For those of you in the know, the secret behind Nutella's delectable taste lies in a familiar yet exotic ingredient: hazelnuts! Whether you refer to them as hazelnuts or filberts, these distinctive nuts with their hazel hue bring a one-of-a-kind flavor and satisfying crunch that elevates any dish from the mundane to the extraordinary. In the following article, we will delve into a comprehensive exploration of hazelnuts, covering their origins, nutritional profile, culinary applications, and potential health advantages.

What is a Hazelnut? 

The hazelnut, also known as filberts, is the nut of the hazel tree (Corylus). This nut is typically round, tapering at one end, and encased in a tough shell. Its usual color is brown with stripes running towards the pointed tip.

Historical Background

Hazelnuts boast a long and storied history spanning millennia. Thought to have their origins in Asia, hazelnuts have been grown in diverse regions across the globe, such as Europe, Asia, and North America. These nuts held a significant place in the culinary practices of numerous ancient civilizations and were also incorporated into traditional medicine due to their purported health advantages.

What Hazelnuts Taste Like?

Hazelnuts have a sweet flavor profile with subtle hints of mustiness and earthiness. One of the key flavor components in hazelnuts is filbertone, a naturally occurring ketone present in hazelnut oil. Filbertone imparts a roasted, mellow, sweet, and long-lasting essence.
Another significant compound contributing to the hazelnut aroma is bean pyrazine. This compound has a scent reminiscent of peas, beans, earthiness, chocolate, and nuts, which is why it's also found in coffee.
In addition to these, hazelnuts contain 2-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl pyrazine, which exudes an aroma resembling almonds, roasted almonds, or the distinctive hazelnut fragrance that we are familiar with.

Nutritional Value

Hazelnuts are a nutritional powerhouse, providing a wide array of essential nutrients. Here's a breakdown of their nutritional content per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving:

• Calories: 176
• Protein: 4.2 grams
• Fat: 17 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4.7 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2.7 grams
• Vitamin E: 4.3 mg (21% of the Daily Value)
• Thiamine (Vitamin B1): 0.2 mg (12% of the Daily Value)
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 11 mcg (3% of the Daily Value)
• Potassium: 193 mg (5% of the Daily Value)
• Magnesium: 46 mg (12% of the Daily Value)
• Phosphorus: 82 mg (8% of the Daily Value)
• Iron: 1.3 mg (7% of the Daily Value)
• Copper: 0.6 mg (30% of the Daily Value)
• Manganese: 1.3 mg (68% of the Daily Value)

Different Species of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts vary in both color and texture depending on their type. They can be categorized into three main groups based on their subspecies, shape, volume, and shell hardness:

• Corylus avellana racemosa Lam: These hazelnuts grow in clusters and are characterized by their round, large size, often displaying a net-like pattern on their surface.
• Corylus avellana glandules’ Lin: These hazelnuts have an acorn-like shape, coming in various sizes with a cone-shaped narrow base and a pointed apex. Their shells are not very hard.
• Corylus avellana Maxima Lam: These hazelnuts come in either aspheric or round shapes, featuring large or medium-sized fruits with hard shells.

Health Benefits

Hazelnuts offer a range of potential health benefits:

• Cardiovascular Health: Thanks to their monounsaturated fats, hazelnuts can assist in lowering bad cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Antioxidant Richness: Hazelnuts are packed with antioxidants, such as vitamin E, that safeguard cells from oxidative damage.
• Weight Management: Despite their relatively high calorie content, hazelnuts can induce a sense of fullness and potentially lower overall calorie consumption.
• Supporting Bone Health: Hazelnuts are a good source of essential minerals like magnesium and calcium, which contribute to strong and healthy bones.
• Enhanced Digestion: The fiber found in hazelnuts can support digestive processes and help prevent constipation.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Hazelnuts have a low glycemic index and may aid in regulating blood sugar levels.

Culinary Uses

Hazelnuts exhibit remarkable versatility and find application across a wide spectrum of culinary creations. They are commonly enjoyed in the following ways:

• Snacking: Roasted and salted hazelnuts serve as a delicious and healthful snack.
• Baking: Hazelnuts can be integrated into a variety of baked goods, including cookies, cakes, and bread, enhancing their flavor and texture.
• Nut Butter: Hazelnut butter, often referred to as hazelnut spread, offers a luscious and flavorful alternative to peanut butter.
• Salads: Toasted hazelnuts can infuse salads with a delightful crunch, or they can be ground to create flavorful dressings.
• Desserts: Hazelnuts harmonize exquisitely with chocolate, earning them a prominent role in beloved confections like Nutella and chocolate truffles.
• Cuisine: Hazelnuts are featured in both sweet and savory dishes, enriching pasta sauces, pesto, and traditional European desserts with their unique taste and texture.

How to Choose and Buy Perfect Hazelnuts

• When purchasing hazelnuts in the shell, choose those that appear full and have a substantial weight. Older nuts tend to become lighter as they dry within the shell.
• If you prefer shelled nuts, opt for those with intact, tightly sealed skins and plump, healthy-looking kernels. To secure the freshest nuts available, consider shopping at a store with a high rate of product turnover.
• Ensure there is no evidence of mold growth on the hazelnuts. Mold growth is relatively rare and typically only occurs in a humid environment when the nuts have spoiled.
• Steer clear of discolored nuts or those bearing stains and blemishes.

Storage

Fresh hazelnuts are both perishable and delicate. Shelled hazelnuts should be consumed promptly and stored at room temperature, away from heat and humidity. They can also be preserved in the refrigerator or freezer for a maximum of five months. Unshelled hazelnuts, on the other hand, can be stored in a cool, dry place for an extended period.

For longer preservation, shelled hazelnuts can be placed in an airtight container or bag in the freezer, maintaining their freshness and flavor for a year or more. Alternatively, you can keep hazelnuts in an airtight container inside a refrigerator set between 32 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit, where they will remain fresh for up to eight months.

In conclusion, hazelnuts offer a delectable and nutritious addition to your diet. Their versatility allows for various consumption methods, be it snacking, cooking, or baking, all while potentially imparting health benefits. However, it's important to be cautious about allergies and practice proper storage to maintain their freshness. Hazelnuts, with their rich history and adaptability, are a cherished culinary gem enjoyed in cuisines worldwide, and their enduring appeal promises to gratify taste buds for generations to come.