Roasted Spanish Marcona Almonds with Honey & Rosemary Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between almonds and Marcona almonds? ›

The flavor and texture of marcona almonds are entirely different than the more common California almond. A higher fat content helps explain the textural difference — tender-crunchy and moist. As for flavor, think uber savory and steak-like.

As Garten said, Marcona almonds are, indeed, expensive and this has to do with the fact that they are imported from a single location (Spain) and considered a gourmet grocery item. The good news is you can make almonds at home that have a similar flavor and feel to Spanish Marconas.

Store in a cool, dry place for 1-3 months if not refrigerated. If refrigerated, shelf life is up to 6 months.

What are the benefits of Marcona almonds? Like all almonds, Marcona almonds are a healthy and filling snack. Rich in proteins, magnesium, iron, vitamins... it would also have a detoxifying effect. Still, it is consumed above all with pleasure for its taste so savory.

Nutritionally, they're almost identical — although any similarity in fat content is completely undone by serving them in their most delicious form: Glistening after a light saute in olive oil, and sprinkled with flaky salt and perhaps some chopped fresh rosemary.

These almonds are more rounded and plump than the California varieties we're used to. They also seem to have a softer and somewhat “wet” texture, similar to macadamia nuts. The marcona almonds we've tried have a sweeter, more delicate taste closer to the flavor we associate with almond extract.

Sometimes called "the queen of almonds," Marcona almonds are large and flat, with a higher fat content than California almonds.

Kirkland Signature Marcona Almonds, 20.7 oz | Costco.

Mamra badam grows in Iran and Afghanistan, and are nutritionally far more superior than the rest. It can be characterised by its concave shape. They are the most expensive variety of almonds considering it is not mass produced unlike California almonds.

The very quality that makes Marcona almonds so delicious—its high oil and moisture content—makes them particularly susceptible to becoming rancid, so buy only what you can use by the package sell-by date and store them properly.

How long do Marcona almonds last once opened? ›

Whole, unopened almonds in the shell can last for up to 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard, and away from direct sunlight. Once the shell is opened, the almonds should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 6 months.

Almonds may be beneficial if you have diabetes because they might reduce a spike in blood sugar and insulin levels, and they're rich in magnesium.

In Spain, marcona almonds show up with savory and sweet companions. They pair nicely with cheeses, often are crushed and mixed into ground figs, and are added liberally to turron, a sweet honey-based Spanish nougat. And they make a nice soup topping.

Mamra almonds accounts for roughly 5% of total global almond production and are hence considered as the premium variety of almonds in the world. This makes Mamra Badams very expensive, as much as 3X times more than the regular almond varieties.

Mamra almonds are one of the healthiest types of almonds in the world. They are rich in nutrients, low in carbohydrates, and completely natural. Regular consumption of Mamra almonds can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, promote healthy ageing, and aid in weight loss.

Extra No. 1 is the highest quality almond grade. This grade has less than 5% chips and scratches and less than 1% split and broken almonds. The amount of foreign material constitutes less than .

The best brand of almonds for health are those that are unprocessed, raw, and organic. Look for almonds that are free of additives, preservatives, and added sugar. Additionally, check the labels to make sure they do not contain high levels of sodium or fat.