Alesto
Alesto Noisettes
What it is
These are whole hazelnuts, also known as filberts. They are the edible nuts of the hazel tree. They have a rich, earthy flavor and a satisfying crunch. The nuts are typically sold shelled and sometimes lightly roasted to enhance their aroma and taste. They are a popular snack and baking ingredient.
How people cook with it
Hazelnuts are versatile in the kitchen, adding flavor and texture to both sweet and savory dishes.
- Snacking
- Baking
- Salad topping
- Sauce ingredient
You can enjoy these hazelnuts straight from the bag as a quick snack. For baking, they are often chopped or ground and added to cakes, cookies, and pastries. They can also be toasted in a dry pan or oven to bring out their full flavor before being incorporated into recipes. Hazelnuts pair well with chocolate and coffee flavors. They can be used to add a nutty depth to savory dishes, such as pestos or crusts for meats and fish.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other nuts like almonds or walnuts, hazelnuts have a distinct sweet and slightly woody flavor. Their texture is also unique, offering a firm yet yielding crunch. They are smaller than many other common nuts, making them ideal for finely chopped applications.
Who it is for
Home cooks and bakers often use hazelnuts to elevate their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
To keep the rest of your hazelnuts fresh, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator or freezer. This helps to preserve their flavor and prevent them from becoming rancid.