From our mothers nagging us to eat almonds for better marks to our diet gurus instructing us to replace our unhealthy snacks with nuts, we all know about them being super foods. Rich in protein, fiber, monounsaturated fats, vitamins and minerals, these are quite delicious on their own. However, our tongues crave diversity of taste and texture.
So here is a list of five different ways to keep eating nuts!
1. Pistachios: One of the richest Vitamin B6 sources, pistachios also contain a good amount of unsaturated fatty acids. Coarsely grind it up and mix it with some desiccated coconut and condensed milk/melted jaggery (for the vegan option) and set into cute little snack bars.
2. Walnut: Walnuts have the highest amount of antioxidants than any other nut and are great for anyone looking to keep their cholesterol in check. Being a super source of Omega 3 fat, walnuts make the healthiest nut butter to spread over your brown bread or sandwich between your fiber biscuits.
3. Almond: Almonds are the best sources of vitamin E, which is a fat-soluble antioxidant and is the best for keeping your LDL or bad cholesterol under control. Slice some roasted almonds and pour amber caramel over it and garnish with sea salt! Smash it into manageable pieces and you have your walnut praline ready.
4. Macadamia Nuts:These nuts are rich in monosaturated fats, which are good for the heart and are also packed with protein and fibre that reduces hunger and promotes weight loss. A very unique way to consume more of these is by making a macadamia nut hummus! All the orthodox hummus ingredients blitz with half a cup of blanched macadamia make the healthiest dip for your pita bread.
5. Hazelnut:A 2011 study stated that individuals who ate hazelnuts every day reported improved insulin sensitivity. Poor insulin sensitivity is linked to the development of Type II Diabetes, and hence hazelnuts can even prevent the disorder to an extent. A delicious way to consume the nut is in the form a hazelnut crumb. Mix coarsely ground hazelnut with ghee/clarified butter, a spoonful of sugar and bake at 210°C till golden brown. Sprinkle it over your ice cream, your smoothies or even your cereals.
