Activated Nuts 101: A Beginner's Guide to Making and Enjoying These Nutritious Treats
Nuts are a delicious and nutritious snack, packed with protein, fibre, and vitamin E. However, have you heard of activated nuts? In this blog, we'll introduce you to the world of activated nuts, explaining what they are and why they're worth trying.
Activated nuts are a type of nut that has undergone a soaking and dehydration process. This process is said to enhance their texture and flavour, making them a popular choice for snacking or adding to recipes. By activating your nuts, you can enjoy a unique and delicious taste that sets them apart from regular nuts. In the next section, we'll share some tips on how to activate nuts at home and some tasty ways to incorporate them into your diet.
Table of Contents
- What Exactly Are Activated Nuts?
- The Perks of Going "Activated"
- Activating Nuts: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips for the Best Activated Nuts
- How to Use Your Activated Nuts
- Picking the Perfect Nuts for Activation
- Soaking and Drying Times for Different Nuts
- Storing Your Activated Nutty Goodness
- Discover the Exceptional Taste of 2die4 Activated Nuts
What Exactly Are Activated Nuts?
Activated nuts are simply nuts that have undergone a traditional food preparation and preservation process used by ancient cultures like the Incas and Mayans. The nuts are soaked in water (usually salted) and then dehydrated. This process is meant to kickstart germination, break down phytic acid, and preserve the newly available nutrients.
The Perks of Going "Activated"
- Happier tummies: Activation breaks down enzyme inhibitors found in raw nuts, which can make them easier to digest and reduce bloating, heaviness, and nausea.
- Better nutrient absorption: Soaking nuts releases phytase enzymes that break down phytates, which can interfere with mineral absorption. This might help your body absorb nutrients like iron, calcium, and zinc more effectively.
- Enhanced flavour and texture: Activated nuts have a satisfying crunch and a richer flavour than their raw counterparts.
It's worth noting that phytates also have antioxidant properties, so don't ditch raw nuts altogether.
Activating Nuts: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to give activated nuts a whirl? Follow these simple steps:
1- Dissolve salt in water—enough to cover your nuts.
2- Put the nuts in a large bowl and cover them with the saltwater solution.
3- Soak nuts for 3 to 24 hours, depending on the type.
4- Strain and rinse the soaked nuts, then pat them dry.After soaking, the nuts will look nice and puffy, and may even start to show signs of sprouting. Rinse the nuts under running water and pat dry.
5- Spread the nuts on a dehydrator rack or baking tray.
6- Dry the nuts in a dehydrator for 12-24 hours or in an oven set at the lowest temperature (preferably no more than 65°C) for the required drying time, stirring occasionally.
7- Taste test to make sure they're dry and crunchy before storing.
Tips for the Best Activated Nuts
- Don't cook the nuts, as this will destroy the activated enzymes and minerals.
- Make sure the activated nuts are totally dry before storing to prevent mould growth.
- Add some flavour by sprinkling your favourite herbs and spices on the nuts before drying them.
How to Use Your Activated Nuts
Activated nuts are more than just a tasty snack; they can also be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Munch on them as a standalone snack.
- Add them to antipasto platters, trail mixes, mueslis, and salads.
- Whip up your own activated nut butters and milks.
- Try recipes like a scrumptious Warming Buckwheat Porridge with activated almonds.
Activated nuts are a fun and potentially beneficial addition to your diet. Give them a try and enjoy their enhanced flavour and crunch, while possibly reaping the benefits of easier digestion and improved nutrient absorption.
Picking the Perfect Nuts for Activation
Before diving into the world of activated nuts, it's essential to know which nuts work best for this process. Here are some top picks for activating:
When selecting nuts for activation, opt for raw and unsalted varieties. Roasted nuts have already been exposed to high temperatures, which can destroy the enzymes and nutrients you're trying to preserve.
At Honest to Goodness, we offer a wide range of organic raw nuts that are perfect for activation. However, if you prefer to skip the hassle and purchase activated nuts, you can choose from our extensive selection of 2 Die 4 activated nuts.
Soaking and Drying Times for Different Nuts
Different types of nuts require different soaking and drying times for optimal activation results. This guide provides you with the recommended soaking and drying durations for various nuts.
Here are the recommended soaking and drying times for each type of nut along with the amount of salt to add:
| Nut (1cup) | Salt | Soaking Time | Drying Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Almonds | 1 tsp | 12-14 hours | 12-24 hours |
| Brazils | 1 tsp | 7-12 hours | 12-24 hours |
| Cashews | 1 tsp | 3-6 hours | 12-15 hours |
| Hazelnuts | 1 tsp | 7-12 hours | 12-15 hours |
| Macadamias | 1 tsp | 7-12 hours | 12-15 hours |
| Pecans | 1/2 tsp | 5-8 hours | 12-15 hours |
| Pine Nuts | 1 tsp | 7-10 hours | 12-24 hours |
| Pistachios | 1 tsp | 5-8 hours | 12-24 hours |
| Walnuts | 1/2 tsp | 5-8 hours | 12-24 hours |
Remember, the key to successful activation is to tailor your soaking and drying times to the type of nut you are using. Use this guide to help you achieve optimal results.
Storing Your Activated Nutty Goodness
Proper storage is essential for keeping your activated nuts fresh and delicious. Follow these tips for the best results:
1- Ensure the nuts are completely dry before storing. Moisture can lead to mould growth.
2- Use an airtight container to prevent the nuts from absorbing moisture and odours.
3- Store the container in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
4- For longer-lasting freshness, keep activated nuts in the refrigerator or freezer.
By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy the flavour, texture, and nutritional benefits of your activated nuts for longer.
Discover the Exceptional Taste of 2die4 Activated Nuts
Incorporating activated nuts into your daily routine can be an exciting way to shake up your diet and potentially improve digestion and nutrient absorption. The activation process is easy to do at home and lets you experiment with different nuts, flavours, and recipes.
In addition to preparing activated nuts at home, you can also enjoy the convenience and variety offered by 2die4 Activated Nuts. As a part of the Honest to Goodness family, 2die4 provides a wide range of high-quality, activated nuts that have been carefully prepared to optimise their flavours and nutritional benefits. From the rich and creamy texture of Activated Organic Cashews to the buttery goodness of Activated Organic Macadamias, our product range has something for everyone. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, 2die4 Activated Nuts are a delicious and nutritious choice that you can feel good about adding to your daily routine. Explore their diverse selection, and discover the exceptional taste and health benefits of activated.
