Nutty about nuts

Pistachio

A little-known fact about the pistachio is that it’s actually part of the cashew family. The nut usually comes in a shell that you have to prise open. It’s commonly roasted or salted in huge batches. However, the pistachio has an earthy taste all of its own, which makes it great for making ice cream or traditional Arabic desserts such as baklava.

Peanut

The most consumed nut on the planet. According to a study by FAOSTAT, United Nations a whopping 46m tonnes of peanuts are produced each year. It’s the versatility of the peanut that makes it so popular. It can be used in numerous hot and cold recipes or, if you’re feeling adventurous, turned into your very own peanut butter.

Brazil nut

This hefty nut comes with a creamy, almost milk-like taste. It’s packed with protein and dietary fibre. However, you should think twice before reaching for a packet after your workout as they’re also full of saturated fat that can cause you to gain unwanted weight. Maybe only put a few Brazil nuts out for guests this season.

Hazelnut

With a flavour that’s slightly sweet and a touch bitter, hazelnuts are an intriguing nut. They’re rarely part of a mixed nut selection, but this doesn’t mean they’re not wildly popular. Hazelnuts go fantastically well when chopped and served with sweet desserts, especially those that contain milk chocolate.

Almonds

There’s a light chewiness to almonds that really set them apart from other nuts. As they’re used as a milk alternative, it’s no surprise then that they have a creamy taste. They’re also rare in that they work just as well when covered in sweetness, such as honey, as they do with savoury flavourings like when they’re roasted or coated in chilli powder.

Macadamia

Much like the Brazil nut, macadamias are high in calories. Just 100g of the rich and buttery nuts contain around 700 calories. But, well, they’re incredibly moreish. They’re almost too good to mix with other nuts in a bowl. Simply serve them on their own with a generous pinch of rock salt over the top for a delicious snack.

Cashew

Although it’s most often used in baking and other savoury recipes, cashews are a delightful snack on their own. The odd-looking nut is can be split into two near-identical halves and fill the mouth with buttery tastes and textures. Add some dried cranberries to the mix and you’ve got a winning bowl of nutty goodness for you and your guests.