Hazelnuts are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add a nutty flavor and texture to a variety of dishes.
From baked goods to savory dishes, ground hazelnuts can be used in many ways. But how do you make ground hazelnuts?
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for grinding hazelnuts and share tips for using hazelnut flour and meal in your cooking.
Whether you’re following a gluten-free or paleo diet, or simply looking to add some nutty goodness to your recipes, read on to learn how to make ground hazelnuts.
How To Make Ground Hazelnuts
There are several methods for making ground hazelnuts, depending on the texture and consistency you’re looking for. Here are some of the most common ways to grind hazelnuts:
1. Food Processor or Blender Method:
One of the easiest ways to make ground hazelnuts is by using a food processor or blender. Simply add the hazelnuts to the processor and pulse until they are ground into a sandy powder. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can turn the nuts into nut butter.
To ensure even grinding, blend one cup of hazelnuts at a time. If the blender or food processor is too full, it can heat up and release the natural oils in the nuts, resulting in a sticky nut flour. Repeat the grinding process in one cup increments until you have the desired amount of flour.
2. Hand Grind Method:
If you don’t have a food processor or blender, you can also grind hazelnuts by hand using a mortar and pestle. This method takes more time and effort, but it can result in a finer texture than using a food processor.
Simply place the hazelnuts in the mortar and use the pestle to grind them into a powder. Be sure to work in small batches to ensure even grinding.
3. Freezing Method:
Another tip for making ground hazelnuts is to freeze them before grinding. This helps to prevent the natural oils from releasing too quickly and can result in a finer texture.
To use this method, simply place the hazelnuts in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for at least an hour before grinding.
Why Use Ground Hazelnuts?
Ground hazelnuts are a great alternative to traditional flour in baked goods, adding a unique nutty flavor and keeping baked goods tender. Hazelnut meal acts as a binding agent, flavor booster, and nutrition enhancer. It provides the same texture as traditional flour, but also incorporates that signature nutty flavor.
Using ground hazelnuts in recipes like cookies, breads, and pastries can add a new depth of flavor and texture to your baked goods. You can even replace a portion of your regular flour with ground hazelnuts to add a nutty twist to your favorite recipes.
When making your own ground hazelnuts, it’s important to be careful not to over-blend them. Over-blending can turn the nuts into nut butter and ruin the texture of your flour. Using a food processor or blender in small batches can ensure even grinding and prevent the release of natural oils that can result in a sticky nut flour.
Methods For Grinding Hazelnuts
When it comes to grinding hazelnuts, there are several methods you can choose from depending on the texture and consistency you want to achieve. Here are some of the most common methods:
1. Nut Mill Method:
If you’re looking for a fine, evenly ground hazelnut flour, a nut mill is the best tool for the job. This device is specifically designed to grind nuts into a consistent texture without turning them into nut butter.
To use a nut mill, start by toasting your hazelnuts in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Once they’re cool, rub the skins off with a towel and place the nuts in the top of the nut mill. Crank the hand crank around several times to grind the nuts into a cornmeal-like consistency. The ground nuts will fall through the grate into the bottom portion of the nut mill.
2. Food Processor or Blender Method:
Another popular method for grinding hazelnuts is using a food processor or blender. To do this, make sure that the processor bowl and blade are dry and cool before adding room temperature hazelnuts.
Pulse the nuts in short bursts until they are finely ground, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can turn the nuts into nut butter.
3. Hand Chopping Method:
If you don’t have a food processor or nut mill, you can also chop hazelnuts by hand using a large sharp knife and a cutting board.
Start by piling up the nuts on the cutting board and holding them in place with your non-dominant hand. With your dominant hand, use a rocking motion to chop through the nuts with the flat side of the knife blade. Keep chopping through small batches of nuts until they reach your desired consistency.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use dry and cool equipment, work in small batches, and avoid over-processing to achieve the perfect texture for your ground hazelnuts.
Using Hazelnut Flour And Meal In Baking
Hazelnut flour and meal can be used in a variety of baked goods to add a rich, nutty flavor and texture. Here are some tips for using hazelnut flour and meal in baking:
1. Cookies and Bars:
Hazelnut flour can be substituted for up to 25% of the flour in cookie or bar recipes. This will add a delicious nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to your baked goods. Hazelnut meal can also be used as a coating for nut bars or as a topping for fruit crisps.
2. Cakes and Cupcakes:
Hazelnut flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour in cake and cupcake recipes. It will add a rich, nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to your baked goods. Hazelnut meal can also be used as a topping for cakes or as a filling for cupcakes.
3. Pancakes and Waffles:
Hazelnut flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour in pancake and waffle recipes. It will add a delicious nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to your breakfast treats.
4. Bread:
Hazelnut flour can be used in bread recipes to add a rich, nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture. It can be substituted for up to 25% of the flour in bread recipes.
5. Coatings:
Hazelnut meal can be used as a coating for chicken or fish instead of breadcrumbs. It will add a delicious nutty flavor and a crunchy texture to your savory dishes.
6. Granola:
Hazelnut meal can be added to homemade granola recipes to add a delicious nutty flavor and extra protein.
Incorporating Hazelnuts Into Savory Dishes
Hazelnuts are not just limited to sweet recipes, they can also add a delicious and nutty flavor to savory dishes. Here are some ideas for incorporating ground hazelnuts into your savory recipes:
1. Hazelnut Crusted Meat:
Ground hazelnuts can be used as a crust for meat dishes like chicken, pork or beef. Simply mix the ground hazelnuts with some breadcrumbs and your favorite spices, then coat the meat in the mixture before baking or frying.
2. Hazelnut Pesto:
Replace pine nuts with ground hazelnuts in your favorite pesto recipe for a unique twist on this classic sauce. The nuttiness of the hazelnuts pairs well with basil, garlic and parmesan cheese.
3. Hazelnut Soup:
Add ground hazelnuts to your favorite soup recipe for added texture and flavor. The nuts can be added towards the end of the cooking process or toasted beforehand for an even richer flavor.
4. Hazelnut Dressing:
Ground hazelnuts can be used as a base for salad dressings, mixed with olive oil, vinegar and your favorite herbs and spices. This dressing pairs well with bitter greens like arugula or radicchio.
5. Hazelnut Spread:
Similar to Nutella, a homemade hazelnut spread can be made by blending ground hazelnuts with cocoa powder, sugar and milk or cream. This spread can be used as a dip for fruit or vegetables or spread on toast for a quick breakfast or snack.
Incorporating ground hazelnuts into your savory dishes can add a unique and delicious flavor profile to your meals. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the nutty goodness of hazelnuts in new and exciting ways.
Tips For Storing And Using Ground Hazelnuts
Once you have ground your hazelnuts, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Here are some tips for storing and using ground hazelnuts:
1. Airtight Container:
Store your ground hazelnuts in an airtight container to prevent moisture and air from getting in. This will help to keep the nuts fresh for longer. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Pantry or Fridge:
If you plan to use your ground hazelnuts within a few days, store them in the pantry. However, if the weather is warm or humid, it’s best to store them in the fridge. This will help to prevent the nuts from going rancid.
3. Freezer:
If you have ground a large quantity of hazelnuts or don’t plan to use them frequently, store them in the freezer. This will help to extend their shelf life and prevent the natural oils from going rancid.
To freeze ground hazelnuts, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and label with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
4. Baking:
Ground hazelnuts can be used in a variety of baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, and breads. They add a nutty flavor and texture to any recipe.
When baking with ground hazelnuts, it’s important to remember that they have a high fat content and can easily turn into hazelnut butter if overmixed. Be sure to mix the flour just until it’s incorporated into the batter.
5. Roasting:
For full flavor, roast your raw shelled hazelnuts before grinding or chopping them. Spread them in a single layer on a baking tray and roast at 275 F (130 C) for about 15 minutes until the skins begin to break. Roll in a clean tea towel, let rest for 10 minutes, and then gently rub back and forth to remove skins. Bring the nuts to room temperature before using.
In conclusion, making ground hazelnuts is easy and can add a unique flavor and texture to your baked goods. By following these storage and usage tips, you can ensure that your ground hazelnuts stay fresh and flavorful for longer.