Almond butter

I LOVE almond butter. I love it so much I once had to ban it from my cupboard because I would eat a jar in one sitting. By the spoonful! This was my indulgence when I gave up sugar for the first time.

I’m hoping now, that by going through the slightly more onerous task of making it myself, that I can control this yummy love affair.

Almond butter is a healthier alternative to peanut butter. Peanuts are actually a legume and can be quite acidic. Whereas almonds are rich in vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and potassium and are a good source of protein and fiber. They are also known to alkalise the body.

This recipe is really simple and only three ingredients are required:

• 3 cups organic raw almonds
• Olive oil
• Salt

1. First you need to soak the almonds in filtered water overnight
2. The following day, drain the almonds and toast them in the oven at a very low heat.  This takes several hours and it is essential the almonds are completely dried out.  Then it adds a bit more flavour if you allow the almonds to toast up and get a little crispy.
3. Once the almonds are toasted, it helps your food processer if you can crush them up a bit.  I’ve tried using a rolling pin and a pestle.  The pestle was more effective.
4. Place nuts in the food processor just a handful at a time e.g. put a handful in, let the processor do its thing, then add another handful and so on. Again this is to protect the motor. If you have a Vitamix or something equally as powerful, you can most likely add them all at the same time.
5. Depending on your processor, after 5 – 10 minutes the almonds will start to look like a very thick paste like this:

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6.    At this stage, add a splash of olive oil and some salt to taste.
7.    Blend some more and then keep adding oil and salt until you have your desired consistency. Easy peasy!

You can enjoy this nut butter as a spread on toast, mixed in with yoghurt, as a substitute for any recipe requiring peanut butter or if you are after a quick energy hit, by the spoonful.

Enjoy!

Love Lili x