Crack Open the Secret of the Spanish Almond Love Affair

The Spanish almond is are a staple of the country’s diet. Here’s our guide to this popular and versatile nut.

Spain is one of the largest producers of almonds in the world. And the Spanish almond has been a staple of the country’s cuisine and culture for centuries. These delicious nuts are grown in several regions of Spain. With the province of Granada one of the largest and most renowned production areas. But where did the Spanish love affair with almonds begin?

Two Millennia of Spanish Almonds

The almond tree is native to the Mediterranean region and has been grown in Spain for over 2,000 years. The tree requires a warm climate and well-drained soil, making it well-suited to the growing conditions in southern Spain. Today, the country produces over 300,000 metric tons of almonds each year, with a significant part of the crop exported to other countries.

Almonds in Spanish Cuisine

In Spanish cuisine, almonds feature in a variety of dishes, from sweet desserts to savoury dishes. One of the most famous Spanish desserts made with almonds is turrón, a type of nougat that is traditionally made with almonds, honey, and sugar. Turrón is a popular Christmas treat in Spain and people of all ages enjoy it. Another popular dessert made with almonds is marzipan, which is a sweet paste made from almonds, sugar, and egg whites. This sweet treat is often moulded into various shapes, such as fruits or animals, to decorate cakes and other baked goods.

Besides adding flavour to sweets, almonds are also a staple in savoury dishes in Spain. They are often used in sauces and stews, as well as in marinades for meats and vegetables. For example, the famous Spanish dish “ajo blanco” is a chilled soup made with almonds, garlic, bread, and olive oil. This dish is typically served during the hot summer months and is a refreshing and light option.

Quality Ingredient

The almond industry in Spain is highly regulated, with strict quality standards in place to ensure the high quality of the nuts produced. The Spanish Almond Board, which is responsible for promoting and protecting the interests of the industry, works to ensure that all almonds produced in the country meet these standards. Additionally, the Board works to increase the demand for Spanish almonds both domestically and abroad.

The versatile Spanish Almond

Aside from the culinary uses of almonds, the nut is also a valuable source of oil. And features in the production of a variety of cosmetic and personal care products. Almond oil has moisturizing and nourishing properties, making it a popular ingredient in soaps, lotions, and other beauty products.

In sum up, almonds are an important part of Spanish culture and cuisine. From turrón and marzipan to savoury dishes and beauty products, the versatile nut has a wide range of uses and applications. With a rich history and a thriving industry, it’s no wonder that Spain is one of the largest producers of almonds in the world.