Sweet almonds are grown as dessert nuts and to enjoy plain. Bitter almonds are easier and cheaper to grow but contain prussic acid and can be consumed only after removal of this acid. Almonds are used mostly for cooking and are very popular in the confectionery industry in desserts such as marzipan, nougat and macaroons. Whether you eat them straight from the package or use them in cooking, almonds make a delicious and nutritious food. Research conducted by the Director of the Health Studies Center in Los Altos, California showed that blood cholesterol levels were maintained or even lowered in subjects who replaced saturated fatty acids in their diets with the monounsaturated fatty acids found in almonds.
Almonds are sodium and cholesterol free.
A one ounce serving of almonds provides 7 grams of protein, is an excellent source of magnesium and the antioxidants vitamin E and ellagic acid. They are also a good source of riboflavin, potassium, niacin, zinc and fiber. For our delicious Almond Cream Dessert tea we ve combined fine black teas, sweet slivered almonds, fresh spicy cinnamon, and natural nut cream and almond flavor extracts. The result is a smooth, cordial-like tea that is rich in flavor and aroma. This tea may be enjoyed any time of the day but is especially pleasant in the evening as a dessert with a touch of sugar added.