Seasonal Delicacy: Green Almonds - A Nutrient-Rich Food Worth Incorporating in Your Diet!
Green almonds, the immature variants of the familiar almonds, make a brief yet exciting appearance in Indian markets from June through September [1]. These green, fuzzy fruits are a delight for those who appreciate their unique taste and refreshing crunch.
The northern Himalayan belt areas, such as Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, are the primary sources of green almonds in India. These regions, with their favourable climatic conditions, are home to the bulk of almond trees that produce these green gems [5]. Other regions like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and parts of central and northern India are also experimenting with almond cultivation, but production is still in its nascent stages.
India's almond market is heavily influenced by both domestic production and imports. The prices and availability of almonds can be affected by import duties and global trade issues, particularly during the festive season starting from July-August. However, green almonds, being harvested locally during the summer months, offer a seasonal fresh product that stands apart [2][5].
Green almonds can be enjoyed raw with a pinch of salt, or used in a variety of creative ways. They can be chopped and mixed into curd or raita, adding a delightful crunch to these popular dishes. In some innovative kitchens, green almonds are used to make tart chutneys and garnish spring desserts. Traditional Indian and Persian recipes also include green almonds, cooked with seasonal vegetables or lentils. In Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, green almonds are often pickled.
When it comes to storage, green almonds should be kept in a perforated plastic or paper bag in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer to maintain their freshness. Excess moisture can cause green almonds to spoil faster, so proper storage is crucial.
Green almonds are not mainstream in most Indian kitchens, but their unique taste and versatility make them worth exploring. So, if you come across them during your next visit to the market, don't hesitate to give them a try!
- Green almonds, due to their unique taste and refreshing crunch, can be used creatively in various Indian dishes such as being chopped and added to curd or raita, or used to make tart chutneys and garnish spring desserts.
- In the realm of health and wellness, green almonds offer a seasonal fresh product that could be a valuable addition to one's diet due to their nutritional profile, which is still under exploration in women's health studies.
- For those seeking a healthy lifestyle, one may consider incorporating these green gems into their fitness-and-exercise routines, as part of a balanced nutrition plan, given their potential health benefits yet to be fully determined.
- In the realm of food-and-drink, green almonds can be pickled in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, or cooked with seasonal vegetables or lentils in traditional Indian and Persian recipes, providing a delightful addition to one's lifestyle cooking repertoire.
