Almond paste is a common ingredient in Italian cuisine for the preparation of desserts such as almond cake and dry pastries. In Sicily, it has been a base for preparations since ancient times, as almonds are found throughout the island, even spontaneously.
Introduction: Almond Paste
Almond paste is rich in nutrients; it is a good source of proteins, fiber, healthy fats, and B-group vitamins. Almonds, in particular, are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, almonds also contain magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are important for heart and nervous system health.
Almond paste can be made at home using peeled and roasted almonds, or it can be purchased ready-made at specialized stores or supermarkets. When buying almond paste, it’s important to check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain added sugars or preservatives. Additionally, it’s preferable to choose organic almond paste to avoid the use of pesticides and other chemicals.
Almond paste can be used in various ways in the kitchen. For example, it can be used to make the crust of a tart or to create a base for a cake. It can also be used to make cookies and pastries like amaretti and almond pastries. In Sicily, almond paste is used to prepare “frutta martorana” or the famous Sicilian cassata.
How to use almond paste?
Almond paste can be used in many ways in the kitchen, both for the preparation of sweets and savory dishes. Here are some ideas for using almond paste:
- Tarts and Cakes: Almond paste can be used to make the crust of a tart or to create a base for a cake.
- Cookies: Almond paste is a common ingredient in many cookies, such as amaretti and almond cookies.
- Dry Pastries: Almond paste is a common ingredient in dry pastries, such as frangipane, cannoli, and almond pastries.
- Ice Cream: Almond paste can be used to make a creamy and flavorful almond ice cream.
- Almond Pesto: Almond paste can be used to make almond pesto to be used as a pasta condiment or as a base for a sauce.
- Jams: Almond paste can be used to make almond jam, which can be used as an accompaniment for cheeses or to fill croissants and tarts.
- Sauces: Almond paste can be used to make an almond sauce, suitable as an accompaniment for meats or fish.
- A side note: Almond paste can also be used in cosmetics for preparing face and body creams, thanks to its properties derived from its essential oil.
Recipes that contain almond paste
Sicily is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine, and many of its traditional dishes include almond paste as an ingredient. Here are some of the most famous Sicilian recipes that use almond paste:
- Sicilian Cassata: This typical Sicilian dessert is made with almond paste, ricotta cheese, sugar, and candied fruits. Almond paste is used to create the base and covering of the dessert.
- Frutta Martorana: Found in some areas of Sicily, these are sweets made with almond paste skillfully decorated to resemble freshly picked fruit, typically fruit found on the island.
- Sicilian Almond Paste Pastries: These are typical Sicilian sweets made with almond paste, sugar, and eggs.
- Almond Granita: Almond granita is one of the most famous Sicilian specialties, prepared with almond paste, sugar, and water.
- Almond Milk: Warm water and a block of almond paste melted within it create a refreshing summer beverage.
Where to find the best almond paste in Sicily?
Sicily is renowned for the quality of its almonds, and as a result, you can find excellent almond paste in many parts of the island. Here are some places where you can find the best almond paste in Sicily:
- Noto: Noto is famous for the quality of its almonds, and here, you can find some of the best almond paste on the island.
- Agrigento: Agrigento is known for almond production, and you can find high-quality almond paste here.
- Bronte: Bronte is another significant almond-producing center in Sicily, and you can find excellent almond paste here.
- Local markets and almond festivals: In many Sicilian cities throughout the year, there are local markets and almond festivals where you can find quality almond paste at affordable prices.
- Specialty shops: In many Sicilian cities, there are specialty stores that sell quality almond paste, often locally produced and organic.
- Online: You can always purchase almond paste online directly from producers or specialized stores.
