Hazelnuts

The hazelnut is the nut of the hazel and therefore includes any of the nuts deriving from species of the genus Corylus, especially the nuts of the species Corylus avellana. It also is known as cobnut or filbert nut according to species.[1] A cob is roughly spherical to oval, about 15–25 mm (0.59–0.98 in) long and 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) in diameter, with an outer fibrous husk surrounding a smooth shell and a filbert is more elongated, being about twice as long as its diameter. The nut falls out of the husk when ripe, about seven to eight months after pollination. The kernel of the seed is edible and used raw or roasted, or ground into a paste. The seed has a thin, dark brown skin, which sometimes is removed before cooking.

Hazelnuts are used in confectionery to make praline, and also used in combination with chocolate for chocolate truffles and products such as Cadbury chocolate bars, Nutella and Frangelico liqueur. Hazelnut oil, pressed from hazelnuts, is strongly flavoured and used as a cooking oil. Turkey is the world's largest producer of hazelnuts.

Hazelnuts are rich in protein, monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, manganese, and numerous other essential nutrients

Benefits:

1. Supporting healthy bowel movements

Hazelnuts are a good source of dietary fiber. Eating plenty of fiber encourages regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation.

2. Reducing weight gain

According to recent research, eating nuts may help some people to gain less weight.

3. Protecting against cell damage

Hazelnuts contain the antioxidant vitamin E. Some research suggests that vitamin E may help shield the body from types of cell damage linked to cancer.

4. Lowering cholesterol

Eating hazelnuts may help reduce cholesterol.

5. Improving insulin sensitivity

Eating a nut mix that includes hazelnuts may help improve insulin sensitivity.

6. Supporting heart health

Hazelnuts may help to promote a healthy heart.

7. Reducing inflammation

Eating hazelnuts may help to ease inflammation.

8. Improving sperm count

Recent research indicates that consuming more nuts, including hazelnuts, may increase sperm count and improve the sperms’ quality.

Serving ways:

• As delicious flavor to baked goods, including cookies, biscotti, cakes, and tarts.

• As savory dishes like seafood, salads, pesto, and even pizza.

• As flavor liqueur and to make hazelnut butter, a spread similar to peanut butter.