National Almond Day: You can add them to a salad, grind them into flour, use them as a healthy alternative to milk, or simply nibble on a few as an afternoon snack. Almonds are among the most adaptable and tasty nuts. Almonds are packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and fibre, and they may even help prevent heart disease. On February 16, National Almond Day, let’s celebrate these tiny, nutrient-rich powerhouses!
The History of Almonds
The almond is a species of tree native to the Middle East and South Asia. The almond is also the name of the edible and widely cultivated seed of this tree. The fruit of the almond tree, called an drupe, is not a true nut, but rather a dry fruit with a single seed inside.
Almonds have been cultivated since ancient times. They were mentioned in the Bible and were used by the Romans as a symbol of fertility. In medieval Europe, almonds were used in sweets and desserts.
Almonds were brought to California by Spanish missionaries in the 18th century. Today, California produces more than 80% of the world’s almonds.
There are two main types of almonds: sweet almonds and bitter almonds. Sweet almonds are the type most often eaten as nuts or used in cooking, while bitter almonds are used to make almond extract and oil of bitter almonds.
NATIONAL ALMOND DAY ACTIVITIES
Donate some almond bark.
Almond bark is a delectable, slightly decadent, and incredibly simple confection to prepare. Pour melted chocolate over almonds and add any other ingredients, such as dried fruit, that strike your fancy. When the chocolate has hardened, break the bark into pieces and wrap them in cellophane to demonstrate your affection.
Try various almonds
Almonds are available in a variety of flavours, including smoked, honey roasted, and even sriracha, and textures, including chopped, blanched, sliced, and slivered. Almonds that have been sprouted have a distinct crunch, whereas Jordan Almonds are a globally renowned delicacy. There are so many options that you can celebrate the entire day!
Make a marzipan sculpture
Almond paste is combined with sugar and a few other ingredients to create marzipan. It can be coloured and used to create sculptures in the same manner as clay, with the delightful difference that the sculptures are edible.
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What is National Almond Day?
In America, February 16th is National Almond Day! This special day celebrates one of the United States’ most popular nuts.
Almonds are native to the Middle East and South Asia, but they have been grown in California since the 19th century. Today, California produces 80% of the world’s almonds.
There are two main types of almonds – sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds are the type that is typically eaten as a snack or used in recipes. Bitter almonds are used to make almond oil and are also used in some folk medicines.
Almonds are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and vitamin E. They have been linked with many health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
So go ahead and celebrate National Almond Day by eating a few extra almonds!
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Almond Health Benefits
Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamins and minerals. They can help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and improve your gut health. Additionally, almonds have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases.
NATIONAL ALMOND DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | February 16 | Thursday |
2024 | February 16 | Friday |
2025 | February 16 | Sunday |
2026 | February 16 | Monday |
2027 | February 16 | Tuesday |