Almonds are an important ingredient in traditional Spanish Jijona and Alicante nougat, as well as a nutritious food in their own right. They provide plant protein, fibre, mainly unsaturated fats, vitamin E and minerals. As nougat makers in Xixona, we work closely with this ingredient and pay attention to its variety, freshness and origin.
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What nutrients do almonds provide?
Almonds are rich in fat, predominantly unsaturated, and also contribute plant protein and dietary fibre. They provide vitamin E as well as minerals such as magnesium, manganese, calcium and phosphorus. The precise nutrient content varies with the variety, processing and serving size.
Are almonds high in calories?
Yes. They are an energy-dense food because they contain natural oils. A small portion can be filling, but total calories still matter in the context of the day’s diet. Dry-roasted and raw almonds may differ slightly from those cooked in oil or coated in sugar.
Almonds and heart health
Unsaturated fats can form part of a heart-healthy eating pattern when used in place of some saturated fats. However, an individual food should not be described as preventing or treating cardiovascular disease. Overall diet and lifestyle remain important.
Vitamin E and antioxidant activity
Almonds are a source of vitamin E, a nutrient that contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. This is a recognised nutritional function, not evidence that almonds alone can prevent specific diseases.
Fibre and digestion
Dietary fibre contributes to normal bowel function as part of a varied diet. Almonds also contain plant protein, which supports the nutritional value of a snack or recipe.
Raw, roasted and ground almonds
Roasting changes aroma and texture; grinding makes almonds suitable for baking and nougat. With ground almonds, protect the product from air and heat because their oils can oxidise. Sugar-coated almonds and almond confectionery contain added ingredients that alter the nutritional profile.
What is Marcona almond?
Marcona is a traditional Spanish almond variety prized in confectionery for its rounded shape and pleasant flavour. It is not inherently a medical or nutritional superior food compared with all other varieties; assess freshness and quality as well as cultivar.
How almonds are used in Jijona nougat
Traditional Jijona turrón is made with ground almonds, while Alicante turrón has whole nuts. Honey and sugar also contribute to these sweets, so a nougat bar does not have the same nutrient composition as a portion of plain almonds.
Allergies and storage
Almonds are tree nuts and may cause serious allergic reactions. Store them dry, cool and airtight, and avoid nuts with an off or rancid smell. Always check labels on processed products for other allergens.
Frequently asked questions
Are almonds a good source of protein?
They contribute plant protein, although they are primarily energy-dense because of their fat content.
Are almond sweets as nutritious as plain almonds?
They may contain added sugars or fats, so their overall nutritional composition is different.
Can everyone eat almonds?
No. People with an almond allergy must avoid them, including in nougat and marzipan.