What Can I Do With a Bag of Hazelnuts? Unleashing the Culinary Potential

Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are a delightful and versatile nut packed with flavor and nutrition. But what do you do when you have a whole bag of these little treasures? The possibilities are truly endless, spanning from simple snacks to elegant desserts and savory dishes. This article will explore a wide range of ways to utilize your hazelnut hoard, transforming them into culinary masterpieces and everyday treats.

Elevating Your Snacking Game with Hazelnuts

Let’s start with the basics. Hazelnuts are fantastic on their own as a healthy and satisfying snack.

Simple Roasted Hazelnuts: A Flavorful Start

Roasting hazelnuts enhances their natural nutty flavor. To roast them, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Remember to shake the pan occasionally for even roasting. Once cooled, rub them in a clean kitchen towel to remove the skins (though this is optional – some people enjoy the slightly bitter skin).

Sweet and Savory Hazelnut Mixes

Beyond plain roasted hazelnuts, consider creating your own personalized snack mixes. Combine roasted hazelnuts with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans. Add dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for sweetness. For a savory kick, include roasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or a sprinkle of sea salt and your favorite spices like smoked paprika or chili powder. This is a great way to tailor a snack mix to your own preferences.

Hazelnut Butter: A Nutritious Spread

Homemade hazelnut butter is surprisingly easy to make and tastes far superior to many store-bought versions. Simply roast your hazelnuts, let them cool slightly, and then process them in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Be patient, as it may take several minutes for the oils to release and create a smooth consistency. You can add a touch of honey, maple syrup, or salt to taste.

Hazelnuts in Baking: Adding Depth and Texture

Hazelnuts shine in baked goods, adding a unique nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.

Hazelnut Flour: A Gluten-Free Alternative

For those avoiding gluten, hazelnut flour is a fantastic option. You can make your own by grinding roasted hazelnuts in a food processor until they reach a fine flour-like consistency. Be careful not to over-process, as you don’t want to make hazelnut butter. Hazelnut flour can be used in cakes, cookies, muffins, and even pancakes. It adds a rich, nutty flavor and slightly moist texture to baked goods.

Hazelnut Cookies: Classic Comfort

Hazelnut cookies are a timeless treat. You can add chopped hazelnuts to your favorite cookie recipe, or create a hazelnut-centric cookie by using hazelnut flour or incorporating hazelnut butter. Biscotti, shortbread, and chocolate chip cookies all benefit from the addition of hazelnuts.

Hazelnut Cakes and Brownies: Decadent Delights

Hazelnuts elevate cakes and brownies to a new level of indulgence. Incorporate hazelnut flour into your cake batter for a subtle nutty flavor, or sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top for a textural contrast. For brownies, consider adding a swirl of hazelnut butter or a layer of chopped hazelnuts in the middle.

Hazelnut Muffins and Scones: A Breakfast Boost

Start your day with a hazelnut-infused muffin or scone. Add chopped hazelnuts to your favorite muffin or scone recipe for a boost of flavor and texture. You can also drizzle a hazelnut glaze over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Hazelnuts in Savory Dishes: Unexpected Delights

Hazelnuts aren’t just for sweet treats; they can also add a unique dimension to savory dishes.

Hazelnut Pesto: A Nutty Twist on a Classic

Pesto is traditionally made with pine nuts, but hazelnuts can be a delicious substitute. Simply replace the pine nuts with roasted hazelnuts in your favorite pesto recipe. The hazelnuts add a richer, nuttier flavor that complements the basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese beautifully.

Hazelnut-Crusted Chicken or Fish: Adding Texture and Flavor

Create a flavorful crust for chicken or fish by coating it in a mixture of crushed hazelnuts, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your protein. Simply dip the chicken or fish in egg, then dredge it in the hazelnut mixture before baking or pan-frying.

Hazelnut Salad Topping: Adding Crunch and Nutrition

Sprinkle toasted hazelnuts on top of your salads for added crunch, flavor, and nutrition. Hazelnuts pair well with a variety of salad ingredients, including leafy greens, roasted vegetables, fruits, and cheeses.

Hazelnut Sauce for Pasta: A Creamy and Flavorful Addition

Create a creamy and flavorful sauce for pasta by blending roasted hazelnuts with cream, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. This sauce is delicious served over pasta with vegetables or protein.

Hazelnut Stuffing: A Festive Favorite

Add chopped hazelnuts to your favorite stuffing recipe for a festive touch. The hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Beyond Food: Exploring Other Uses for Hazelnuts

While hazelnuts are primarily known for their culinary applications, they also have other uses.

Hazelnut Oil: A Luxurious Addition to Skincare

Hazelnut oil is a luxurious oil that is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It can be used in skincare products to moisturize and nourish the skin. It’s often used in massage oils, lotions, and creams.

Homemade Hazelnut Extract: Infusing Flavor

You can infuse your own hazelnut extract by steeping roasted hazelnuts in vodka or other high-proof alcohol. This extract can be used to add hazelnut flavor to baked goods, beverages, and other recipes.

Preserving Your Hazelnuts: Ensuring Freshness and Flavor

To maintain the quality of your hazelnuts, proper storage is essential.

Storing Hazelnuts Properly

Store raw hazelnuts in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. They can be stored at room temperature for a few months, or in the refrigerator for up to a year. Roasted hazelnuts should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks. Proper storage helps prevent the nuts from becoming rancid.

Freezing Hazelnuts: Extending Shelf Life

Hazelnuts can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to a year. Thaw them in the refrigerator before using.

Hazelnut Recipes to Inspire You

Let’s explore some specific recipes to get those creative juices flowing.

Nutella Inspired Spread

This is a homemade version of the popular chocolate hazelnut spread. You will need:

• 1 cup roasted hazelnuts, skins removed
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon hazelnut oil (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Process hazelnuts in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
2. Add melted chocolate, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, hazelnut oil (if using), and salt.
3. Process until well combined and smooth.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Hazelnut and Cranberry Biscotti

A delightful twice-baked cookie perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
4. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in chopped hazelnuts and dried cranberries.
7. Divide dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long.
8. Place logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden.
10. Let cool slightly, then slice each log into 1/2-inch thick slices.
11. Arrange slices on a baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
12. Let cool completely before serving.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Hazelnuts and Balsamic Glaze

A savory and healthy side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
5. Transfer Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl.
6. Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
7. Serve immediately.

With these ideas and recipes, you’re well on your way to making the most of that bag of hazelnuts! Experiment, have fun, and enjoy the nutty goodness! Remember, hazelnuts are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits, making them a fantastic addition to your diet.

FAQ 1: How can I best prepare raw hazelnuts for eating or using in recipes?

Hazelnuts benefit greatly from toasting. To toast them, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until fragrant and the skins begin to crack. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn easily. Once toasted, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

The next crucial step is removing the skins, which can be bitter. Place the slightly cooled hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub them vigorously. The skins should flake off. Some skins may persist, but don’t worry about removing every single piece. You can also blanch them briefly in boiling water and then rub off the skins.

FAQ 2: Can I make hazelnut flour at home? What’s the best method?

Yes, you can easily make hazelnut flour at home. Ensure your hazelnuts are toasted and skinned for the best flavor. Allow them to cool completely before grinding. Using hazelnuts with the skins on will result in a darker, more intensely flavored flour, but can also introduce bitterness.

Place the toasted hazelnuts in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Be careful not to over-process, as this can release the oils and turn the flour into hazelnut butter. Stop when the mixture resembles a coarse flour. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent the oils from going rancid.

FAQ 3: What are some sweet applications for hazelnuts beyond Nutella?

Hazelnuts are incredibly versatile in sweet treats. Think beyond Nutella and consider incorporating them into baked goods like cookies, cakes, and brownies. Chopped hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to almost any dessert recipe. Hazelnut brittle is another easy and delicious option.

You can also use hazelnuts to create elegant desserts such as hazelnut macarons, hazelnut praline, or a simple hazelnut cream pie. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with chocolate, caramel, and coffee. Don’t forget about using them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for added texture and flavor.

FAQ 4: Are hazelnuts suitable for savory dishes? If so, what are some examples?

Absolutely! Hazelnuts aren’t just for sweets. They can add a wonderful earthy flavor and texture to savory dishes. They pair particularly well with earthy vegetables like mushrooms, squash, and Brussels sprouts. Consider using them in salads, pasta dishes, or as a crust for fish or chicken.

One popular savory application is hazelnut pesto, which offers a unique twist on the classic basil pesto. Toasted hazelnuts can also be chopped and sprinkled over salads for added crunch and flavor. They can also be used to make a delicious hazelnut vinaigrette for dressing salads.

FAQ 5: How should I store hazelnuts to maximize their shelf life?

Proper storage is key to preventing hazelnuts from becoming rancid due to their high oil content. The best way to store hazelnuts is in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Pantries or cupboards are generally suitable if they are away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

For longer-term storage, consider refrigerating or freezing hazelnuts. Refrigerated hazelnuts can last for several months, while frozen hazelnuts can maintain their quality for up to a year. Be sure to use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen hazelnuts in the refrigerator before using.

FAQ 6: Can I make hazelnut milk at home? How does it compare to other non-dairy milks?

Yes, making hazelnut milk at home is quite simple. Soak a cup of raw hazelnuts in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Drain and rinse the soaked hazelnuts. Then, blend them with 3-4 cups of fresh water and a pinch of salt. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth to remove the pulp.

Hazelnut milk offers a unique nutty flavor that distinguishes it from other non-dairy milks. It is naturally sweeter than almond milk and has a creamier texture than rice milk. Hazelnut milk is a good source of vitamin E and manganese, but it may be lower in protein compared to soy milk or oat milk.

FAQ 7: What are some common pitfalls to avoid when cooking with hazelnuts?

One of the most common mistakes is not toasting the hazelnuts properly. Toasting enhances their flavor and makes the skins easier to remove. Under-toasting can result in a bland flavor, while over-toasting can cause them to burn and become bitter. Always keep a close eye on them while toasting.

Another pitfall is over-processing hazelnuts when making flour or butter. Over-processing can release too much oil, resulting in a paste rather than a flour. Pulse the hazelnuts in short bursts and stop when you achieve the desired consistency. Also, remember to store hazelnuts properly to prevent them from going rancid.