Almond paste (hummus)

Almond Paste – A Refreshing and Healthy Delicacy

If you're looking for a delicious and healthy appetizer, almond paste is the perfect choice. This simple and quick recipe can be prepared in just 10 minutes, offering you a gourmet option that will impress anyone at the table. Whether you serve it at a party or as a healthy snack, almond paste is an excellent choice.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 100 g soaked almonds (raw and unsalted)
- 100 g white bread (you can use gluten-free rice flour bread)
- Approximately ¾ cup water
- 3 garlic cloves (or to taste)
- Juice from ½ lemon (or to taste)
- 4-5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Sweet paprika for garnish
- Unsalted and unroasted sunflower seeds for garnish

Nutritional Information:

This recipe is rich in protein, healthy fats (thanks to the almonds and olive oil), and essential vitamins. Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E and antioxidants, while garlic provides additional immune benefits.

Preparation Instructions:

1. Soak the Almonds: Start by soaking the almonds in salted water for 12-24 hours. This step is essential as soaking helps improve the texture and flavor. Make sure the almonds are well dried before use, otherwise, they risk becoming rancid.

2. Prepare the Bread: Tear the slice of bread into large pieces and place it in a bowl. Add ¾ cup of water over the bread and let it soak for a few minutes.

3. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, add the soaked almonds and garlic. Blend until you achieve a fine powder. It’s important not to rush this step – a fine texture will make a difference in the final dish.

4. Add the Bread: Once the almonds are finely ground, add the soaked bread mixture. Blend again until you achieve a thicker paste consistency.

5. Season: Start adding salt, white pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. It’s important to add the olive oil gradually, tablespoon by tablespoon, while continuously mixing to achieve a smooth emulsion.

6. Garnish: Transfer the almond paste to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil on top and sprinkle sweet paprika and unroasted sunflower seeds for an attractive appearance.

Practical Tip:

For an even more intense flavor, you can lightly toast the almonds before using them. However, for a healthier option, keep them raw and soaked. You can also experiment with additions like fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or dill) or spices (e.g., cumin) to give your recipe a personal twist.

Gluten-Free Option:

If you need a gluten-free option, make sure the bread you use is certified gluten-free. Rice flour bread, as mentioned in the recipe, is an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How can I store the almond paste?
The paste can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-5 days. Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.

2. What can I use instead of bread?
For a vegetarian option, you can use corn tortillas or even fresh vegetables like carrots and celery to make a healthy appetizer.

3. Can the almond paste be frozen?
While it’s recommended to consume it fresh for the best texture, you can freeze the paste in small portions. When you defrost it, mix it well to restore the consistency.

Share the Moment:

This almond paste pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. You can serve it alongside fresh vegetables, warm pita, or even on a slice of toasted bread. It’s also an ideal accompaniment to a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail. Imagine a summer evening spent with friends, savoring this delicacy and sharing your favorite moments.

Conclusion:

So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a wonderful culinary experience. Almond paste will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of health to your diet. Enjoy!