Chinese almond powder, also known as sweet apricot kernel powder, is a versatile and nutritious ingredient widely used in traditional Chinese cuisine and natural remedies. Despite its name, it is not derived from almonds but rather from the kernels of sweet apricots, offering a unique flavor and an array of health benefits.
Origins and History
Chinese almond powder has a rich history, tracing its roots back to ancient China. It was believed that Chinese empresses consumed almond tea made from these kernels to maintain their youthful and radiant skin. Over time, Chinese almond powder became an integral part of traditional Cantonese soups and nourishing dishes.
Production Process
Naturalam’s Chinese almond powder is meticulously crafted to preserve its natural oils and nutrients. The process involves selecting premium sweet apricot kernels, removing their skins, and delicately grinding them under controlled conditions. This method ensures maximum extraction and retention of the kernel’s beneficial compounds.
Nutritional Value
Chinese almond powder is a rich source of essential nutrients, including:
- Protein: Contributes to muscle growth and repair.
- Plant fat: Provides energy and supports cell function.
- Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
- Vitamins and minerals: Contains vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, which support overall health and well-being.
Health Benefits
In traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese almond powder is believed to possess several health-promoting properties, including:
- Nourishing the lungs and skin: Its emollient properties are said to benefit the respiratory system and promote a healthy complexion.
- Supporting heart health: The presence of plant sterols may contribute to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
- Aiding digestion: Its fiber content supports regular bowel movements and digestive health.
Culinary Applications
Chinese almond powder is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into various culinary creations:
- Almond milk: A nutritious and dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk, easily made by blending almond powder with water.
- Almond tea: A traditional Chinese beverage enjoyed hot or cold, prepared by steeping almond powder in hot water.
- Soups and stews: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and thickening texture to soups and stews.
- Baking: Enhances the flavor and nutritional value of baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and muffins.
Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil, extracted from the kernels of sweet apricots, is a lesser-known oil with numerous health benefits, including:
- Skin health: Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, it nourishes and protects the skin.
- Respiratory health: Supports lung function and may alleviate respiratory issues.
Safety Considerations
It is important to note that bitter apricot kernels, also known as northern almonds, contain trace amounts of cyanide. However, sweet apricot kernels, or southern almonds, used in Naturalam’s almond powder, are safe for consumption due to their lack of amygdalin, the compound that produces cyanide.
Chinese almond powder, derived from sweet apricot kernels, is a nutritious and versatile ingredient with a rich history in traditional Chinese cuisine and natural remedies. Its unique flavor, health benefits, and culinary applications make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet and culinary repertoire.
(Sweet Southern Apricot Kernels)
First thing’s first – they’re actually not almonds per se, but instead apricot kernels, or xìng rén in the Chinese language*. They’re also commonly known as Chinese Almonds, and for practical reasons we use this name as well. While they’re found commonly now in traditional Cantonese style nourishing and harmonizing home soups, Chinese Almonds were said to have been used by imperial Chinese empresses in almond tea to keep their skin supple and glowing.
*Interestingly, the Chinese language also uses the reverse misnomer, calling the Californian variety of almonds “xìng rén.”
Another concern to clear up is about toxicity. There are actually two types of Chinese Almonds – sweet and bitter. Bitter Almonds, also known commonly as beĭ xìng “Northern” Almonds, are mildly toxic containing traces of cyanide as a metabolic product of its amygdalin. They are typically used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) by TCM practitioners. Those sold in markets have typically been blanched, reducing the amount of toxicity to the point where it wouldn’t cause harm under normal consumption levels. Bitter almonds are also used by the Italians to make their Amaretto liqueur and Amaretti cookies.
Because they don’t contain amygdalin, sweet almonds, also known as “Southern” or nán xƭng almonds, are completely safe to eat. They are beneficial for the skin and lungs and high in protein and plant fat. Our Almond Powders are made with these Sweet Almonds.
Apricot kernel oil is one of the lesser known oils that have provide many health benefits, including benefits for better skin and respiratory health.
Similar to how we handle our black sesame, every stage of the creation of our almond powders is planned and optimized to protect and extract the priceless oils.
Authentic Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe
FAQ
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