Fun factoid: Almonds aren't actually nuts... they are called drupes (like a coconut) which are a type of fruit that has an "outer fleshy part that surrounds a pit (or stone), with a seed inside this pit." If you are a visual person, like myself, check out these photos.
My love for almonds has grown tremendously over the years since I have learned all the benefits these little powerhouses hold. I use a wee bit of almond milk as a creamer for my morning cup of Joe... dab a spoonful in my daily superfoodie smoothie for a wee bit of sweetness... and even, crush them up for a nice coating on chicken.
The love-affair is a strong one... but enough about me gushing, let's get down to it!
The more I learn about almonds, the more I fall in love with them. Here's a few of the amazing benefits:
You can check out some more benefits here, if you'd like!
“Almonds give your body antioxidants including phenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that combat stress and are anti-aging.”
— Darin Olien
Honestly. When writing this blog, I almost "skipped" this question. Like how is this even possible? Then I realized, I do use almonds in my beauty regimen - as almond oil.
Almond oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the sweet almond tree (thank you, Essential Oils book!). Almond oil is suitable for most skin types... it's gentle enough for sensitive skin!
Goodness of Almond Oil:
Need a few more bits about the goodness of Almond Oil, check it out here!
Now. Here's a sweet DIY eye-makeup remover recipe I found... about a year or two ago. BUT, it was also spotted on JH's website, so I thought... "why not give her some credit?" So. Here you go, love!
by Julianne Hough
GROCERIES:
NOW WHAT?
NOTE: it's recommend to test the remover on the inside of your wrist overnight before putting on your eyes - be on the safe side! And... most likely will keep for 2-3 days in an airtight container placed in the fridge!
There are a few good recipes with almonds... primal granola... almond butter cookies... fat bombs... almond milk, etc. But, my favorite has to be a homemade crunchy almond butter.
When we started our health journey, I asked a lot of friends for an almond butter recipe... and this was by far the best one! I can not even take credit... I won't! Michelle T., love, THIS is your recipe... you shared with me on social media through a text message a few years back. It's delicious... and one we whip up quite often in our house. Since, we eat almond butter pretty much daily!
It's über delicious! You can add honey or maple syrup to the nut butter for added sweetness, but I rarely find that necessary this is so yummy! I also love to have a more "crunchy" texture to my nut butter so I save 1/4 cup of almonds to add at the end.
NOTE: Michelle had to warn me beforehand... so I am warning YOU. This recipe will take some patience, but it will turn into a nut butter - a delicious almond butter, but be PATIENT!
GROCERIES:
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I realize there are A LOT of notes on this recipe... but it mainly just matters if you like crunchy OR creamy almond butter. Obviously, crunchy is the way to go ;) hehehe!
Please check back for further recipes from our kitchen using almonds... until then, here are a few of our family faves!
If you have any tidbits about almonds, then share below or shoot me an email, I'd love to learn more. Because the more you know... the more you grow! Until then...
Grit + Gumption.
ALG