Oregon is known for its delicious and high-quality hazelnuts, and if you’re a fan of this nutty treat, you might be wondering where to find the best ones.
Luckily, there are plenty of options available for those who want to get their hands on some fresh, farm-direct hazelnuts.
Whether you’re looking for bulk purchases or pre-packaged options, there are plenty of places to choose from.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to buy Oregon hazelnuts and what makes them stand out from the rest.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best places to satisfy your hazelnut cravings!
Where To Buy Oregon Hazelnuts
1. Local Farmers Markets
One of the best places to find fresh, locally grown hazelnuts is at your local farmers market. Many farmers in Oregon grow and sell their own hazelnuts, so you can be sure that you’re getting a high-quality product straight from the source.
Not only will you be supporting local farmers, but you’ll also be able to taste the difference in the freshness and quality of the nuts.
2. Online Retailers
If you’re not able to make it to a local farmers market, there are plenty of online retailers that specialize in Oregon hazelnuts. These retailers often offer a wide variety of options, including pre-packaged nuts, bulk purchases, and even flavored varieties.
When shopping online, be sure to look for retailers that source their nuts directly from Oregon farms to ensure that you’re getting the freshest product possible.
3. Specialty Food Stores
Many specialty food stores carry a variety of Oregon hazelnuts, including both pre-packaged and bulk options. These stores often have a wider selection than your average grocery store, and may even carry unique flavored varieties.
If you’re looking for a specific type of hazelnut or want to try something new, a specialty food store is a great place to start.
The Benefits Of Choosing Oregon Hazelnuts
Choosing Oregon hazelnuts comes with a range of benefits that make them a great choice for both consumers and food companies. First and foremost, Oregon is known for producing some of the highest quality hazelnuts in the world. This is due in large part to the ideal growing conditions found in the state’s fertile Willamette Valley, which produces 99 percent of the U.S. hazelnut harvest on nearly 1,000 family farms.
In addition to their high quality, Oregon hazelnuts are also priced competitively with other commonly consumed nuts, such as pecans and almonds. This means that food companies can use hazelnuts in their products without having to worry about pricing themselves out of the market.
Consumers also benefit from choosing Oregon hazelnuts. Not only are they a healthy snack option, but they also have a unique flavor and texture that sets them apart from other nuts. Plus, by choosing locally grown hazelnuts, consumers can support local farmers and reduce their carbon footprint by buying products that haven’t been shipped from far away.
Hazelnut Farms And Growers In Oregon
Oregon is known for its high-quality hazelnuts, and there are several farms and growers throughout the state that produce these delicious nuts. One such family-owned business is the Melcher family, who have been growing hazelnuts for over 50 years. They offer a variety of packaged, ready-to-eat hazelnuts, including raw, dry roasted, and roasted and salted options. They also have a selection of chocolate-coated hazelnuts and gift boxes available for purchase.
Another family-run hazelnut orchard is Freddy Guys, owned by Barb and Fritz Foulke. They take pride in growing the highest quality nuts, harvesting them each season with their staff and family members, inspecting the crop, and roasting only the highest quality nuts. Their hazelnuts are truly farm-direct and are never warehoused, ensuring a fresh and delicious product.
In addition to these family-owned businesses, there are many other hazelnut farms and growers throughout Oregon that offer fresh, locally grown nuts. These farms often sell their products at local farmers markets or through online retailers.
One thing to note about Oregon hazelnuts is that they use less irrigated water than other nut crops, making them a more sustainable choice. Additionally, hazelnut trees are self-pollinated and bee-friendly, making them an eco-friendly option for consumers.
Local Farmers’ Markets And Specialty Stores
If you’re looking for the freshest and highest quality Oregon hazelnuts, local farmers’ markets and specialty stores are great places to start your search.
At local farmers’ markets, you can find hazelnuts that are grown and sold directly by the farmers themselves. This means that you can be sure that the nuts are fresh and of the highest quality. Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers and their businesses.
Specialty food stores are another great option for finding Oregon hazelnuts. These stores often carry a wider variety of options than your average grocery store, including unique flavored varieties. You can also find both pre-packaged and bulk options at specialty food stores.
When shopping for Oregon hazelnuts at either farmers’ markets or specialty stores, be sure to ask about the source of the nuts. Look for products that are sourced directly from Oregon farms, like Hazelnut Hill, to ensure that you’re getting the freshest and highest quality product possible.
Online Retailers For Oregon Hazelnuts
If you’re looking to purchase Oregon hazelnuts online, there are several reputable retailers to choose from. One popular option is Freddy Guys, a family-run hazelnut orchard that takes pride in growing the highest quality nuts. They offer a variety of options, including roasted and raw nuts, as well as hazelnut butter and flour.
Another great online retailer is Oregon Orchard, which sources their nuts directly from local farmers and offers both pre-packaged and bulk options. They also offer flavored varieties, such as cinnamon and chocolate-covered hazelnuts.
For those looking for organic options, Hummingbird Wholesale offers certified organic Oregon hazelnuts in both pre-packaged and bulk sizes. They also offer hazelnut butter and hazelnut oil.
When purchasing Oregon hazelnuts online, it’s important to read reviews and check for certifications to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality product. Additionally, be sure to check shipping costs and delivery times to ensure that your nuts arrive fresh and in a timely manner.
Hazelnut Recipes To Try At Home
Once you’ve gotten your hands on some delicious Oregon hazelnuts, the possibilities for recipes are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Hazelnut Butter
Move over peanut butter, there’s a new spread in town. Homemade hazelnut butter is easy to make and tastes amazing. Simply roast your hazelnuts in the oven, then blend them in a food processor until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. Add a pinch of salt and some honey or maple syrup for sweetness, if desired.
2. Hazelnut Crusted Chicken
Take your chicken dinner to the next level by coating it in a crunchy hazelnut crust. Simply grind up some roasted hazelnuts in a food processor, then mix with breadcrumbs and seasonings of your choice. Dip your chicken breasts in egg wash, then coat in the hazelnut mixture before baking or frying.
3. Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
If you’re a fan of Nutella, you’ll love this homemade version made with fresh hazelnuts. Roast your hazelnuts in the oven, then blend them in a food processor until they form a paste. Add cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt, then blend again until smooth and creamy. Spread on toast, fruit, or eat straight from the jar.
4. Hazelnut Granola
Make your own crunchy and delicious granola at home with the addition of hazelnuts. Mix together rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, honey, coconut oil, and any other desired ingredients (such as dried fruit or seeds). Spread on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and crispy.
No matter what recipe you choose, using high-quality Oregon hazelnuts will take your dish to the next level. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to find your perfect recipe.
Tips For Storing And Enjoying Your Oregon Hazelnuts
Once you’ve purchased your Oregon hazelnuts, it’s important to store them properly to ensure their freshness and quality. The best way to store hazelnuts long-term is to freeze them. Studies conducted at Oregon State University have shown that hazelnuts can be kept fresh in the freezer for up to a year at 32°F, and even over two years if stored at 0°F. The good news is that they can be thawed and refrozen several times without losing their taste, texture, or nutritional value.
If you don’t plan on freezing your hazelnuts, store them in a cool, dry place for up to three months. If refrigerated, they can last up to six months. It’s important to keep them away from moisture, heat, and light, as these factors can cause the nuts to spoil more quickly.
When it comes to enjoying your Oregon hazelnuts, the possibilities are endless. They make a great snack on their own or can be roasted and added to salads, baked goods, or savory dishes. You can also chop them up and use them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different flavors and spices to create your own unique hazelnut blends. Some popular flavor combinations include cinnamon and sugar, chili powder and lime, or honey and sea salt.
No matter how you choose to enjoy your Oregon hazelnuts, be sure to store them properly to ensure their freshness and quality for as long as possible.
