Sainsbury's
Sainsbury's Blanched Hazelnuts
What it is
These are whole hazelnuts that have had their skins removed through a blanching process. Blanching involves briefly immersing the nuts in boiling water, which loosens the papery outer skin. This makes them easier to peel and results in a cleaner, lighter color compared to unblanched hazelnuts. They are ready to be used in various culinary applications without the need for further preparation to remove the skins.
How people cook with it
Blanched hazelnuts are a versatile ingredient, perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. Their smooth texture and mild flavor make them a great addition to baked goods and sauces.
- For baking cakes and cookies
- To make hazelnut butter
- In savory sauces and pestos
- As a topping for desserts
Blanched hazelnuts can be used whole, chopped, or ground into a meal. They toast beautifully in a dry skillet or in the oven, which enhances their nutty aroma and flavor. Once toasted, they can be incorporated into batters for cakes, cookies, and muffins, or blended into creamy sauces and dips. They also make a delicious base for homemade hazelnut butter or a crunchy topping for yogurt, ice cream, and fruit salads. For a more intense flavor, they can be ground into a fine meal and used as a flour substitute in certain recipes.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike unblanched hazelnuts, these have had their skins removed. This means they offer a smoother texture and a less bitter taste. The absence of the skin also results in a lighter color, which can be desirable for aesthetic reasons in certain desserts and confections.
Who it is for
Home cooks and bakers who appreciate convenience and a refined texture in their nut ingredients.
How to keep the rest
To maintain freshness, store blanched hazelnuts in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator or frozen. Ensure they are completely dry before sealing them away to prevent moisture buildup and potential spoilage.