Hazelnuts are a delightful and versatile nut that can elevate a variety of dishes, from sweet treats to savory meals. Their rich, buttery flavor and crunchy texture make them a favorite among home cooks and bakers alike. Whether you’re looking to incorporate hazelnuts into your recipes or simply want to know how to make the most of a bountiful harvest, this guide will provide you with practical tips and delicious ideas for using hazelnuts in your kitchen.
Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Their unique flavor pairs well with chocolate, fruits, and various spices, making them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Additionally, their natural crunch adds texture and interest to meals and snacks, making them a popular choice for culinary enthusiasts.
How to Harvest and Store Hazelnuts
If you have a hazelnut tree, knowing when and how to harvest is crucial. Hazelnuts are typically ready for harvest in late summer to early fall when the husks turn brown and begin to split. Here are some tips for harvesting and storing your nuts:
- Harvesting: Gently shake the branches or use a pole to dislodge the nuts. Collect them from the ground, ensuring you pick up any that have fallen.
- Drying: Spread the nuts in a single layer in a cool, dry place for about two weeks to allow them to dry completely.
- Storage: Store dried hazelnuts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Preparing Hazelnuts: Roasting, Peeling, and Chopping
Preparation is key to unlocking the full flavor of hazelnuts. Roasting enhances their nuttiness, while peeling removes the bitter skin. Here’s how to do it:
Roasting Hazelnuts
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the hazelnuts. Stir frequently for about 5-10 minutes until they are roasted.
Peeling Hazelnuts
To easily remove the skins after roasting:
- Place the warm nuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub them vigorously. The skins should come off easily.
- For stubborn skins, you can soak the nuts in hot water for a few minutes before rubbing.
Chopping Hazelnuts
Chop hazelnuts coarsely or finely, depending on your recipe. Use a sharp knife or a food processor for convenience. Be careful not to over-process, as they can turn into hazelnut butter.
Homemade Hazelnut Butter: Step-by-Step
Making your own hazelnut butter is simple and rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
- Ingredients: 2 cups of roasted hazelnuts, a pinch of salt, and optional sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Process:
- Place the hazelnuts in a food processor and blend until they start to turn creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add salt and sweetener, if using, and continue to blend until smooth and creamy, about 5-10 minutes.
- Storage: Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Sweet Recipes Using Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts add depth and flavor to a range of desserts. Here are three delightful recipes to try:
Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Ingredients: 1 cup of butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 cup of chopped hazelnuts, and 1 cup of chocolate chips.
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugars. Beat in the eggs and vanilla.
- In another bowl, mix the flour and baking soda. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Hazelnut Cake
- Ingredients: 1 cup of ground hazelnuts, 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of butter, 3 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a bowl, mix the ground hazelnuts, flour, and baking powder.
- Cream the butter and sugar, then add the eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and pour into the pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Candied Hazelnuts
- Ingredients: 1 cup of hazelnuts, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of water.
- Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add hazelnuts and stir until they are coated. Continue cooking until the mixture turns a light caramel color.
- Spread on parchment paper to cool.
Savory Dishes Featuring Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts can also shine in savory recipes, bringing a unique flavor to salads and main courses. Here are two ideas:
Hazelnut Pesto
- Ingredients: 1 cup of fresh basil, 1/2 cup of roasted hazelnuts, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/2 cup of olive oil, and salt to taste.
- Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine basil, hazelnuts, Parmesan, and garlic.
- With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
- Season with salt and serve over pasta or as a sandwich spread.
Hazelnut-Crusted Chicken
- Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of crushed hazelnuts, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, and salt and pepper.
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix crushed hazelnuts and breadcrumbs.
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then coat with the hazelnut mixture.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Creative Snack Ideas with Hazelnuts
Snacking on hazelnuts can be both delicious and healthy. Here are some creative ideas:
- Roasted Hazelnuts: Toss raw hazelnuts with olive oil and sea salt, then roast them for a crunchy snack.
- Spiced Hazelnuts: Mix hazelnuts with your choice of spices (like paprika or cayenne) and roast for an added kick.
- Chocolate-Dipped Hazelnuts: Dip roasted hazelnuts in melted dark chocolate and let them cool on parchment paper for a sweet treat.
Hazelnuts in Baking: Breads, Cakes, and Cookies
Incorporating hazelnuts into baked goods adds flavor and texture. Here are a few examples:
- Hazelnut Bread: Add chopped hazelnuts to your favorite bread recipe for a nutty twist.
- Hazelnut Chocolate Cake: Substitute ground hazelnuts for a portion of flour in chocolate cake recipes for added richness.
- Hazelnut Cookies: Incorporate finely chopped hazelnuts into cookie dough for a delightful crunch.
Hazelnut-Based Spreads and Sauces
Hazelnuts can be transformed into delicious spreads and sauces that enhance various dishes:
- Hazelnut Spread: Blend roasted hazelnuts with cocoa powder, sugar, and a bit of oil for a homemade version of Nutella.
- Hazelnut Sauce: Create a creamy sauce by blending hazelnuts with cream, garlic, and herbs for drizzling over pasta or roasted vegetables.
Gift and Preservation Ideas for Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts make excellent gifts, and preserving them can be a fun project. Consider these ideas:
- Candied Hazelnuts: Package candied hazelnuts in decorative jars for a sweet gift.
- Flavored Hazelnut Oil: Infuse olive oil with roasted hazelnuts and herbs, and bottle it for a unique culinary gift.
- Nut Mixes: Create custom nut mixes with hazelnuts, dried fruits, and spices for a healthy snack option.
Tips for Cooking and Baking with Hazelnuts
When using hazelnuts in your cooking and baking, keep these tips in mind:
- Substitutions: Ground hazelnuts can replace a portion of flour in baked goods, adding flavor and moisture.
- Flavor Pairings: Hazelnuts pair well with chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and fruits like pears and apples.
- Storage: Always store hazelnuts in an airtight container to prevent rancidity. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life.
Making the Most of Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are more than just a tasty snack; they are a versatile ingredient that can enhance both sweet and savory dishes. With the right preparation and creativity, you can incorporate hazelnuts into your meals and treats in countless ways. Whether you’re making homemade hazelnut butter, baking delicious cookies, or crafting unique gifts, these delightful nuts are sure to impress. Embrace the versatility of hazelnuts and enjoy experimenting with them in your kitchen.