Test Your Almond Knowledge On National Almond Day? Quiz

Celebrated annually on February 16, National Almond Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the versatile and nutritious almond. This humble nut is packed with nutrients and is used in a variety of culinary applications, from savory dishes to sweet desserts. On this day, people are encouraged to enjoy almonds in their many forms and appreciate their health benefits.

The almond tree is native to Iran and surrounding countries, including the Levant. Today, it is rarely found wild in its original setting, having been widely cultivated in other regions around the world.

Although their first place of origin is debated, almonds were thought to have first been cultivated in China and Central Asia. These regions, with their temperate climates, provided the ideal conditions for the growth and cultivation of almond trees. Over time, the cultivation of almonds spread, reaching as far as the Mediterranean.

Shelling almonds refers to the process of removing the hard outer shell to reveal the seed. This process is typically done mechanically in commercial operations. Almonds can be sold either shelled or unshelled, depending on consumer preference and intended use.

The almond tree prospers in a moderate Mediterranean climate with cool winter weather. These conditions allow the almond tree to go through its necessary growth cycles, leading to the production of healthy, mature almonds.

California produces over half of the world’s almond supply. The state’s climate, combined with advanced farming practices, has allowed California to become a leader in global almond production.

Blanched almonds are shelled almonds that have been treated with hot water to soften the seedcoat, which is then removed to reveal the white embryo. This process gives the almonds a smooth, creamy texture and allows them to be easily incorporated into a variety of recipes.

Along with the peach, the almond is classified in the subgenus Amygdalus. This classification reflects the shared characteristics of these fruits, including their similar structure and growth habits.

Almonds made their journey to the United States in the mid-1700s. They were brought to the US from Spain by the Franciscan Padres, who recognized the potential of this nutritious nut. Despite initial challenges, almonds eventually thrived in the Californian climate, leading to the establishment of a thriving almond industry.

The fruit of the almond is a drupe, consisting of an outer hull and a hard shell with the seed, which is not a true nut. This unique structure protects the almond seed, allowing it to develop and mature until it’s ready to be harvested.