How To Blanch Slivered Almonds

To blanch slivered almonds, simply drop them into boiling water for about 60 seconds, then drain and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

It’s a quick and easy technique that anyone can master with just a pot, some water, and a little bit of patience.

If you’ve ever wondered how to blanch slivered almonds properly, you’re in the right place.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at why you blanch slivered almonds, the simple step-by-step process, and the best ways to use them afterward.

Let’s get to it.
 

Why You Blanch Slivered Almonds

You blanch slivered almonds for a few key reasons, and they all lead to a better final product in your recipes.

1. To Remove the Papery Skins

The main reason you blanch slivered almonds is to remove their skins.

Although slivered almonds are already cut, they often still have bits of the brown, papery skin clinging to them.

This skin can be bitter and tough.

Blanching the slivered almonds loosens the skins, making them easy to rub or rinse away.

The result is a clean, white almond that looks and tastes more delicate.

2. For a Softer Texture

When you blanch slivered almonds, their texture changes.

The brief dip in boiling water softens them just a bit.

This makes them easier to blend, chew, and is perfect for things like almond flour or smooth nut milks.

It also makes them ideal for recipes where you don’t want a hard, crunchy bite, like delicate pastries or creamy sauces.

3. To Get a Base for Further Processing

Blanching is often the first step in making other almond products.

If you want to make homemade almond milk, almond paste, or marzipan, you need to blanch slivered almonds first.

This crucial step ensures your final product is smooth, white, and doesn’t have a gritty texture from leftover skins.

Learning how to blanch slivered almonds is a basic skill that opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
 

How to Blanch Slivered Almonds: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of how to blanch slivered almonds is straightforward.

Here is a simple guide to get perfect results every time.

1. Bring Water to a Boil

Start by filling a medium-sized saucepan with water.

Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

You’ll want enough water to fully cover the slivered almonds you plan to blanch.

There’s no need to add salt or oil to the water.

2. Add the Slivered Almonds

Carefully pour your slivered almonds into the boiling water.

Be gentle to avoid splashing.

Let them boil for about 60 seconds.

You might see the water turn slightly cloudy, which is normal as the skins begin to loosen.

Do not over-boil them, as they can become mushy.

3. Drain and Shock in Ice Water

Immediately drain the slivered almonds into a colander.

Then, quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process.

This “shocking” step is vital to keep them firm and prevent them from getting too soft.

Let them sit for a minute or two before moving on.

4. Slip Off the Skins

Once the slivered almonds have cooled, you can easily remove the skins.

Take a handful and rub them gently between your fingers or a clean kitchen towel.

The skins should slip right off.

Discard the skins and repeat until all your almonds are cleaned.

Best Ways to Use Blanched Slivered Almonds

Now that you’ve learned how to blanch slivered almonds, you might be wondering what to do with them.

Here are some tasty ideas:

1. Homemade Almond Milk

Blanched slivered almonds are perfect for making fresh almond milk.

Simply blend them with water and strain.

The result is a creamy, smooth milk without any of the gritty texture from the skins.

2. Almond Flour or Meal

After you blanch slivered almonds, you can dry them thoroughly in a low oven or a dehydrator.

Once completely dry, pulse them in a food processor to create your own homemade almond flour.

This is fantastic for macarons and other delicate baked goods.

3. Garnishes and Baking

Blanched slivered almonds make a beautiful and elegant garnish for everything from green beans to desserts.

They can also be chopped and used to decorate the top of cakes and tarts.
 

So, How Do You Blanch Slivered Almonds?

You blanch slivered almonds by boiling them for a minute and then shocking them in an ice bath to preserve their texture.

This simple technique removes the skins and creates a softer, more refined almond.

And while the process of how to blanch slivered almonds is quick, it yields impressive results for any recipe.

Hope this guide has helped you understand why you blanch slivered almonds, the best methods, and how to use them.

Happy blanching.