Peeled Almonds
A simple guide on how to blanch and peel almonds, making them softer and easier for little ones to digest. This nutritious, energy-boosting snack is perfect for toddlers and ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Boil the water.
Bring about 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a small saucepan.
Blanch the almonds.
Carefully add the raw almonds to the boiling water. Let them boil for exactly 60 seconds. Do not cook them for longer, or they will become too soft.
TIPBlanching quickly loosens the skin without cooking the almond all the way through.Drain and cool the almonds.
Immediately drain the hot water from the almonds using a sieve. Rinse them under cold running water for a few seconds to stop the cooking process and cool them down enough to handle.
Peel the almonds.
Once cool enough to touch, gently squeeze each almond between your thumb and forefinger. The skin should slip right off.
TIPIt's easiest to peel them while they are still slightly warm.Prepare for safe serving.
For toddlers under 4, it is crucial to prevent choking. Finely chop or slice the peeled almonds into small, manageable pieces. Never serve whole almonds to young children.
TIPYou can also grind the peeled almonds into a powder to mix into yogurt, oatmeal, or purees.Serve or store.
Serve the chopped or sliced almonds as a snack. To store, let them dry completely on a paper towel, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Peel the almonds while they are still warm; the skin comes off much more easily.
- 2Do not boil the almonds for more than a minute, or they will become too soft and lose their crunch.
- 3Ensure almonds are chopped into small, age-appropriate pieces for young toddlers to avoid choking hazards.
- 4Store peeled almonds in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to a week.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, peeled almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, which are crucial for a toddler's growth and brain development. Peeling them makes them easier to digest.
