Almonds have been found in Turkish and Greek Bronze age sites dating from 3100 – 1100 BC, they are one of two nuts mentioned in the Bible and were also found in Tutankhamum’s tomb (c. 1325 BC).
They are harvested between early August and late September and are closely related to peaches, plums and apricots. Almonds are nutritionally dense, with a high Vitamin E and calcium content. .
The U.S is the largest producer of this nut, which can be eaten raw or toasted, or used to make flour, butter, milk, paste and in confectionaries.
Available varieties:
- Sicily – Tuono
- Spain – Valencias, Guaras
- Puglia – Filipo Cea
- California – Nonpareil, Carmel, Butte