Are you hearing a lot about ALMOND BUTTER (or not)? Well, let me tell you more about it so you could make-up your own mind – unless you are allergic to nuts, then forget about it!

First and foremost, it tastes GOOD which makes it suitable to be part of your diet: eaten on its own or added in sauces, homemade baked recipes and even smoothies!

However, reasonable consumption should still be considered (like any other food product).

Making nuts part of your diet supports your health by helping your body regulate blood sugar and lowering a risk of a heart attack.

The STAR Nutrients:
Vitamin E: As an antioxidant, vitamin E can neutralize free radicals, preventing these harmful chemicals from oxidizing your DNA and proteins, which damages your cells.
Magnesium: Magnesium contributes to the function of your nervous system, facilitates muscle contraction, makes up a component of healthy bone tissue and helps support your metabolism.
Iron: Iron promotes healthy oxygen transport — it helps you make hemoglobin and myoglobin, two proteins that oxygenate your tissues. Like vitamin E, iron protects your cells from oxidative damage by helping to activate antioxidant enzymes in your cells.

Almond butter can be considered as an ideal source of protein before working out. It will provide sufficient energy during workouts since the protein takes longer to digest! Adding it to your smoothies or protein shakes makes it a perfect boosting drink.

I personally add it to my breakfast or snack on a gluten free toast with sliced bananas and a pinch of cinnamon before hitting my workout session.

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup of raw almond
1/2 tsp. of vanilla seeds

1- Preheat oven to 180°C
2- Spread 1 cup of almond on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes. After 10 min make sure that the almonds are evenly roasted.
3- Put the roasted almonds into a food processor, add 1/2 cup of raw almonds and 1/2 tsp. of vanilla seeds. Mix all together for 5-10 min (depending on your machine and preferred texture).

What texture do you prefer: Crunchy or Smooth?
You can have your almond butter Crunchy  (step 3), which would take you approx 8 min.
If you like it smooth (steps 4), keep it for an additional 2 min.

Useful tips:
– Prepare small quantities (2 cups maximum) to ensure freshness.
– Store in glass jar and keep refrigerated (up to 3 months).

For a  chocolate-almond butter version:
You can enrich its flavor by adding organic cocoa powder and organic honey to have your very own homemade chocolate-almond butter spread.

Enjoy your healthy breakfasts & snacks!

The Urban Apron