Grocery
Natural Sliced Almonds
What it is
These are blanched almonds that have been sliced thinly. Blanching removes the brown skin, resulting in a lighter color and a milder flavor. Slicing them creates a delicate texture that toasts quickly and evenly. They are a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes, adding a satisfying crunch and nutty taste.
How people cook with it
Sliced almonds are a popular choice for adding texture and flavor to baked goods and meals.
- Toasted for a crunchy topping
- Mixed into baked goods
- Garnished on salads
- Added to stir-fries
To bring out their best flavor and texture, lightly toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and golden brown. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly due to their thinness. They can be stirred into cookie dough, sprinkled over cakes before baking, or added to granola. In savory applications, they work well as a garnish for vegetable dishes, curries, or stir-fries, providing a delightful textural contrast.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to whole or slivered almonds, sliced almonds offer a more delicate crunch and a larger surface area for toasting. This makes them ideal for applications where a finer texture is desired, and they tend to toast more evenly than slivers.
Who it is for
Home cooks and bakers who enjoy adding a nutty element to their creations often reach for sliced almonds.
How to keep the rest
To maintain freshness, store any unused sliced almonds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent them from becoming rancid.