Macadamias are the ideal go-to nut for people looking to embark on a plant-based diet, or just simply improve their overall nutrition. Macadamias are healthy, delicious and incredibly versatile in the kitchen!
Although experimenting with a new ingredient can sometimes seem daunting, with Australian macadamias it needn’t be. They are an easy to use ingredient with so many uses in the kitchen (and so many health benefits) that it’s possible to include them in almost every type of meal.
Purchasing and storing macadamias
There are several different varieties available in stores, so make sure you choose the right variety for your culinary purposes and then store them appropriately to protect the antioxidants and good oils that are key to their heart and brain-health benefits.
- Nut in shell: Some grocers sell macadamias still in their shells. Keeping macadamias in their shells – their natural packaging – can help them keep a little longer, but be warned: macadamias are tough nuts to crack! Their super-hard shells require a specialist nutcracker and it’s best to buy the shelled kernels if you are going to use them a lot in cooking.
- Raw macadamia kernels: This is the best choice if you are planning to use the nuts in cooking or simply want to roast them yourself, incorporating your own flavours as you go. The texture of raw macadamia kernels is slightly more buttery than when roasted, but the flavour is both subtle and versatile.
- Roasted macadamias: Roasting nuts intensifies their flavour and, though the texture of their crunch is still distinct, it is noticeably crispier. Roasting them gently will not decrease their health-giving properties.
- Roasted, salted nuts: These are usually bought for snacking, but they can still be used in cooking. Check the seasoning of your food if you use them in a recipe, as they will add additional salt to your cooking.
No matter what variety you buy, macadamias benefit from being stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Stored this way, they will keep in the fridge for 3 months and in the freezer for 6 months.
