Blanching Nuts: 3 Simple Techniques

Learn how to blanch nuts to remove their skins with these 3 easy examples.
By Taylor

Understanding Blanching Nuts

Blanching is a cooking technique that involves briefly boiling food and then plunging it into ice water. This method is especially useful for nuts when you want to remove their skins. Removing the skins not only enhances the flavor and texture of the nuts but also makes them look more appealing in your dishes, whether you’re baking, cooking, or snacking. Let’s explore three practical examples of blanching nuts to remove skins.

Example 1: Blanching Almonds for Baking

If you’re preparing to bake a cake or make cookies, using blanched almonds can make a big difference in texture and presentation. Blanching helps you achieve that smooth, clean look while enhancing the flavor of the almonds.

  1. Boil Water: Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add Almonds: Once boiling, add about 1 cup of raw almonds to the water. Let them boil for 1-2 minutes. You’ll notice the skins starting to loosen.
  3. Ice Bath: Prepare a bowl filled with ice water. After 1-2 minutes, quickly transfer the almonds from the boiling water into the ice bath using a slotted spoon. This stops the cooking process and helps cool them down quickly.
  4. Remove Skins: After a few minutes in the ice bath, drain the almonds and gently squeeze each almond to pop off the skin. Most of the skins should come off easily.

Notes: If you like, you can roast the blanched almonds in the oven for added flavor. Just spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Example 2: Blanching Hazelnuts for Nut Spreads

If you’re looking to make a delicious homemade nut spread or use hazelnuts in a salad, blanching them will ensure a smooth texture and rich flavor without the bitterness of the skins.

  1. Prepare Water: Boil a pot of water, enough to cover the hazelnuts (about 2 cups).
  2. Blanch Hazelnuts: Pour 1 cup of raw hazelnuts into the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the skins to loosen but not to cook the nuts completely.
  3. Ice Bath: Just like with the almonds, transfer the hazelnuts to an ice bath immediately after boiling to cool them down.
  4. Peel Off Skins: After a couple of minutes, drain and start rubbing the hazelnuts between your fingers. The skins should come off easily, leaving you with beautifully blanched nuts.

Notes: For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the hazelnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes after blanching. This enhances the nutty aroma and taste.

Example 3: Blanching Peanuts for Snacking

Blanched peanuts can be a great snack on their own or can be used in various recipes. The skins can add a bitter taste, so removing them through blanching can improve the overall flavor profile.

  1. Boil Water: Start with a pot of boiling water, roughly 4 cups.
  2. Add Peanuts: Add 1 cup of raw, unsalted peanuts to the boiling water. Allow them to boil for about 2-4 minutes.
  3. Chill in Ice Bath: Quickly transfer the peanuts to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process.
  4. Peel Off Skins: After they’ve cooled, drain them and begin squeezing them gently; the skins will slip off with ease.

Notes: Blanched peanuts can be salted or seasoned after peeling. For a spicy twist, toss them with some chili powder or your favorite seasoning mix before roasting them in the oven.

Blanching nuts is a simple yet effective technique that enhances their flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking, snacking, or preparing a special dish, these examples of blanching nuts to remove skins will help you achieve the best results in your kitchen!