Almond Butter

Almond butter is an edible paste or nut butter prepared from almonds. This nut butter is considered a healthy substitute for people who suffer from allergies caused by peanut butter.

Culinary Uses
Almond butter can be used as a spread or dressing for salads and sauces. It is also served as an accompaniment with many breakfast dishes like crepes, breads, toasts, or whole grain baked items. This nut butter is also used in the preparation of desserts. Its taste mimics that of peanut butter with subtle tones of almonds.

Preparation
This nut butter is available in different types from raw to toasted butter. Toasted variety has a richer flavor and raw variety has a milder flavor. Blanched almonds help in producing smooth and creamy butter. Raw almonds are added or cooked in boiling water for few minutes to remove their skins and then ground to a fine paste.

The chunkier version has skin and there are visible chunks of almonds. The chunky version has dark spots due to the presence of the skin and the creamy version has a smooth texture and light color. The style and visual presentation of almond butter can be confirmed from the jar.  The tastes of these variations are enriched by the addition of different flavor enhancers.

Storage
Almond butter tastes good when stored in a cool and dry place. It requires refrigeration after opening. The product should be stirred before serving, to avoid oil separation, which forms when many nut butters are exposed to oxidation.  The butter jar is usually placed upside down to encourage the flow of oil to the bottom of the jar. However, nut butters are not stored in this way after opening the jar.

Benefits

Almond butter is considered a healthy substitute to various fatty nut butters available in the market today. Regular and controlled consumption of almond butter results in the following health benefits –

• Low Cholesterol – Almonds are rich in unsaturated fats and almond butter is a healthy substitute for the foods high in saturated fats like mayonnaise and cooking butter. The macronutrients in almonds help in lowering the bad cholesterol and raise the good cholesterol.
• Electrolyte Balance- Almonds present in this nut butter contain several nutrients like potassium, calcium and magnesium which benefit the cardiovascular health. These minerals act together to create a balance between electrolytes which support hydration and cardiovascular health. An electrolyte balance normalizes blood pressure, muscle contraction and fast heartbeat.
• Good Source of Proteins and Dietary Fiber – Almonds provide about 4.5 grams of dietary fiber in 2 tablespoon serving and 7 grams of protein per serving. Dietary fiber helps in avoiding constipation and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Trivia
Almond butter triggers the feeling of fullness in the mind of an eater, because protein takes time to digest. Protein also helps to boost the energy and increases the rate of metabolism there by regulating activeness and alertness throughout the day.