Almond flour is a wonderful addition to any gluten free diet or grain free diet. It is a delicious, gluten free replacement for major grains, resembling the consistency and texture of cornmeal. It is highly nutritious and can be used to replace most flours for baking. Almond flour has been used in recipes for thousands of years. Found in most countries across the globe, it was first used by ancient civilizations for sweet breads and cakes. Modern times have not seen a decline in its popularity. It is used for muffins, pancakes, pastries, confectionaries, pie fillings and pastes.
Shelled, whole almonds are ground to make almond flour. It can easily be prepared in preferred quantities by grinding the nuts in either a food processor, blender or with a pestle and mortar. However, modern gadgets such as bean and nut grinders work equally as well. In fact, it takes very little processing to produce. Alternatively, it can be bought from most major grocery chains, health food and online stores under the name of almond flour or ground almonds.
Because of the denseness of almond flour, the calorie count is high for a single 1 ounce serving. It is a good source for iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, fiber, magnesium and vitamin E. It also contains minimal quantities of protein, making it a part protein that when combined with another part protein, can provide a healthy ingredient for use by grain/gluten allergy and Celiac sufferers.
Some of the best uses for almond flour are as a secondary flour in sweet breads and for making almond paste, commonly known as marzipan. Marzipan can be used as a topping for cakes or making marzipan snacks. Alternatively, it can be added in with other gluten free flours and grains to produce hot cereals. In fact, it makes a tasty addition to nut-based stews and soups.
Lisa A. Bishop is the author of “Fun & Fabulous Grain-Free Breakfast Recipes: How To Enjoy Your Old Favorites in a Brand New Way” which can be found as an e-book at http://grainfreerecipes.com/enjoy-breakfast/ or in paperback at Amazon.
Lisa has a site devoted exclusively to Grain Free and Gluten Free Living at http://www.grainfreerecipes.com There you can find more grain free tips, news and recipes. You can also get the Free Special Report: Grain & Gluten Free Secrets! which reveals 5 fabulous Grain Free and Gluten Free Foods.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_A._Bishop
Popularity: 2% [?]