Brazil nuts are among the most popular snacks. Even those who don't pay much attention to their diet associate their unusual, elongated shape with tasty and filling student trail mixes. The conspicuously largest nuts in this mix are the Brazil nut. Few people know that they are valued not only for their flavor but also for their health-promoting properties. What are they? Let's see!
Brazil nuts were an important trade commodity as early as the 17th century. They grow in the humid forests of the Amazon basin on trees that can reach up to 50 meters in height! They were brought to Europe by Dutch traders, and it was then that they began to gain popularity on the Old Continent.
An anecdote passed down orally says that the famous German explorer and naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, who encountered Brazil nuts in Venezuela, offered a mountain of money equal to the tree's value for a Brazil nut blossom. Another legend has it that before Brazil nuts reached Europe, hungry merchants feasted on them. Upon realizing the energy, strength, and health they gained, they immediately decided to buy larger quantities and distribute them in their own countries. How much truth is there in this? It's unclear.
The fact is, however, that Brazil nuts have beneficial effects on health and beauty, which is why they are such a popular snack.
Brazil nuts - tasty and healthy
Brazil nuts are among the highest-fat nuts. However, this information shouldn't discourage anyone. They have a unique fat composition that is very beneficial for health . They are also recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, Brazil nuts are high in protein and provide a significant amount of selenium, which is beneficial for concentration and brain function, as well as the health of bones and teeth.
100 g of Brazil nuts contain:
- caloric value: 656 kcal
- fat: 66.4 g
- carbohydrates 12 including sugars: 2.3 g
- protein: 14.3 g
- magnesium: 376 mg
- Vitamin E: 5.7 mg
Brazil nuts, what are they good for? Their unique composition of fats and vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, makes Brazil nuts excellent for skin health. Doctors recommend consuming them after surgery and burns precisely because of their powerful properties that support epidermal regeneration.
Brazil nuts also produce high-quality oil, a valued cosmetic ingredient. It contains over 50% oleic acid, which improves skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness.
Brazil nuts, a healthy snack for beer
The flavor of Brazil nuts is somewhat reminiscent of coconut, with a slight almond note. Brazil nuts are a wonderful addition to cakes, pies, and cookies. In some countries, they are sold covered in sweet milk chocolate.
While their sweeter versions are usually recommended, we offer an equally delicious, yet more savory version that makes a great healthy snack...even with beer. These are Brazil nuts in a highly aromatic spice blend.
Spicy Brazil Nuts
- Serves 4
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- 1 serving: 348 kcal
Toast 200g of Brazil nuts in a dry pan and let cool. Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F). Crush a teaspoon of chili powder, black pepper, thyme, and cumin in a mortar and pestle. Beat the egg white with a pinch of Himalayan salt and coat the nuts in it. Add the spices and mix well. Spread the nuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes on the middle rack of the oven.
Brazil nuts can be a great addition to a varied diet. However, you shouldn't consume more than 10 a day. It's also worth paying attention to the type of nuts you buy. Ideally, the ones you choose should be labeled "organic" – this way you can be sure you're buying a top-quality product.
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