NUTS

 

Chestnuts are seeds widely used in cooking or eaten alone, as a snack. They are high in fat and calories. They contain a hard, inedible outer shell that usually needs to be opened to release the (inner) core. Fortunately, you can buy most nuts already shelled and ready to eat.

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Here are some of the most consumed nuts:

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• Almonds: This is a type of low glycemic oilseed, they are a source of antioxidants, monounsaturated fats, vitamins B1 and E and minerals. It is therefore a food that protects the heart from cardiovascular disease.

• Brazil nuts : Also known as Brazil nuts, this is the largest known source of selenium. It is an important mineral which acts in the inactivation of free radicals, activates thyroid hormones, contributes to the detoxification of the body and strengthens the immune system.

• Cashew nuts: Because it contains zinc in its composition, this type of nut is essential in preventing cases of anemia. The polyunsaturated fats in this oil reduce the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase the levels of HDL (good cholesterol). It also contains an amino acid called arginine, which improves performance during physical activity and the ability to recover after training.

• Hazelnut: It is the main oil for lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL). Hazelnuts provide twice as much monounsaturated fat as cashews.

• Macadamia: It has the highest fat content and the lowest concentration of protein and carbohydrates. Its minerals and vitamins work together to reduce the risk of diseases such as metabolic syndrome, hypertension and diabetes. Macadamia also contains Omega 7s, which help control fat burning and reduce appetite.

• Nuts: Because it is a source of omega 3, it is a protective oil for the brain. Nuts prevent free radicals from attacking neurons, prevent aging of the brain, which reduces the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and improves memory.

• Pinion: The pinion measures between five and eight centimeters and is shaped like a wedge with the bark covering the compact, high-energy mass of the seed itself. Due to its characteristic taste and regional presence, pinhão is very popular in southern Brazil, in Paraná, which is known to have the largest araucaria area in the country.

• Pistachio: It is a fruit that grows on the scientific name Pistacia, and is known to be a source of healthy fat, protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Pistachio contains essential nutrients and aids in weight loss, is good for a healthy heart and gut, among other benefits.

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Although peanuts are technically legumes, such as peas and beans, they are generally referred to as chestnuts due to their similar profile and nutritional characteristics.

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DRIED FRUIT

 

The process of dehydrating and drying food is an old method of preservation. Dried figs, apricots and dates are renowned for being more refined, served pure or topped with cheese and nuts. Currently, the little goji berry has become a favorite in the fitness world for its health benefits: it is rich in vitamin C and substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

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• Black plum: It's easy to find it year round, sold with or without pits, in bulk or canned, sometimes with sugar syrup. This is the preferred option to go into the pudding syrup and the white dish. It may be somewhat bite resistant, but it looks great after being boiled with water and sugar. It makes great company for Christmas roasts because it tends to.

• Figo: In general, those who arrive here come from Turkey. Some are larger and flatter, with dry skin and a damp, seed-filled interior; others are round and very dry. They make a perfect pair with nuts and goat cheese. Ramie figs, dried and soaked in a thick sugar syrup, are even more delicious with a little whipped cream and sprinkled with crushed nuts.

• Apricot: With a pleasant acidity, apricot comes in two versions: dry and sour or sweet and wet - the latter is easy to fill with cheese and chestnut creams. Cut into pieces, combines with Moroccan couscous. It can also be used in candy syrup and puddings.

• Goji Berry: Of Chinese origin, it is the size of a raisin, oval and pointed in shape and dark red. It is a little sour on the palate, which makes it interesting for the preparation of flour, cakes and even rice. It is also very tasty in juices that mix fresh fruit and coconut water.

• Date: Cultivated for millennia in the Middle East and Africa, dates are the fruit of a desert palm. The tastiest (and expensive) are the medjool type, so sweet that they can be used as a substitute for sugar in desserts. There are smaller, tougher, but equally tasty versions. Like apricots, both are great for garnishing and serving as an appetizer. Remember to remove the pit before serving.

• Grape: It is one of the most versatile and cheapest dried fruits. In addition to panettone, it also includes rice, farofa, roasts and as a garnish for poultry and red meats. White is more acidic than dark. In some markets, raisins are still sold in bunches, which allows them to be stuffed one by one with egg yolks and sugar or coconut jam.