Almonds' Health Benefits

Almonds are a staple in many time-honored desserts. During the Middle Ages, marzipan was created. Bread, almond butter, cakes and puddings, candied confections, almond cream-filled pastries, nougat, cookies (macaroons, biscotti, and qurabiya), and cakes (financiers, Esterházy torte), and other sweets and treats have all been made with almonds since the 19th century. When the maturing fruit of the almond tree is still green and fleshy on the exterior and the inner shell has not yet hardened, it can be eaten whole (green almonds). Despite its sour flavor, this fruit is a favorite Middle Eastern delicacy when eaten dipped in salt. They are commonly eaten with dates in the Middle East. Pickling or brining the fruit makes it last longer outside of the brief window of mid-April to mid-June when it is in season in the Northern Hemisphere.