Nut Butter: Health and Flavor in a Jar
Nut butter has become one of the hottest foods right now: recommended for diets and appreciated for its versatility in the kitchen.
Let's discover together the four "whys" you should start eating it.
WHY IT'S GOOD FOR YOU:
Nuts are included in the list of so-called "SMART FOODS" of the SmartFood program (https://smartfood.ieo.it/), a research project promoted by the IEO (European Institute of Oncology in Milan) that focuses on accurate scientific dissemination to promote health and research into foods that contain molecules capable of activating longevity genes.
On the other hand, there's a growing consumer interest in nuts, which has led the food industry to propose new uses for them, such as nut butter.
Nut butter has become one of the most popular foods in many healthy, balanced diets. Its numerous nutritional properties make it a favorite choice for many people, such as peanut butter, a typical American product that has entered our homes thanks to the trend for "fit" foods: products with a high protein content, loved by athletes and health-conscious people.
Peanut butter is not only an energy booster, but also an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, with a virtually negligible carbohydrate content: characteristics that make it the ideal food for those who want to increase muscle mass.
Despite being very high in calories and fat, it is also very rich in fiber and has a high satiating effect.
WHY IS IT GOOD?
We've all watched American TV series where people eat peanut butter to their heart's content, but the popularity of nut butter isn't just a fad: it has become so popular thanks to its versatility and irresistible flavor. It has a delicious, creamy flavor derived from the natural fats found in nuts. This makes it a tasty addition to many sweet and savory recipes. It is widely used in many diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and protein-based diets: nut butter is for everyone! It's a tasty alternative to hazelnut spread or traditional spreads, which often contain added sugars and fats. It also offers a variety of options, allowing everyone to find their favorite flavor.
WHY IT'S VERSATILE
Nut butter can be used in many different ways. It's perfect spread on bread, added to oatmeal, yogurt, fresh fruit, or as an ingredient in creamy and delicious smoothies. It can also be used as a base for sauces, dressings, or to enhance savory dishes like soups or pasta sauces. From breakfast to dessert, nut butter has won over everyone. Its creamy texture and intense flavor make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen, adding a touch of flavor and a smooth texture to many dishes.
WHY IT'S EASY TO MAKE
Nut butter is easy to find online and in supermarkets. But for those who want to experiment in the kitchen, making it at home is easy and rewarding.
Here's a simple guide:
1. Choose your favorite nuts: you can use walnuts, almonds, peanuts, hazelnuts, or cashews. Make sure they are unsalted and shelled.
2. Toast the nuts: distribute the nuts evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes. This process will intensify the flavor.
3. Place the toasted nuts in a blender or food processor and blend until creamy. If you'd like a touch of sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
4. Transfer the nut butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for several weeks.
SOURCES https://wisesociety.it/alimentazione/burro-di-frutta-secca/#:~:text=Il%20burro%20di%20noci%20%C3%A8,%C3%A8%20ottimo%20anche%20nei%20dolci.
https://www.veganok.com/burro-di-arachidi/
https://smartfood.ieo.it/
https://www.gazzetta.it/alimentazione/news/30-10-2022/creme-o-burri-di-frutta-secca-cosa-sono-e-come-inserirli-nella-dieta.shtml
