Have you ever tried toasting almonds in a microwave? If not, then I swear you need to do it.
All I can say is that it is life-changing!
I used to toast my almonds using a skillet on a stovetop, but I somehow always end up turning them to charcoal (I did my best, okay!).
Then a friend of mine suggested that I use a microwave and so I did (even if I didn’t think it will work). But….it worked! It didn’t do just an okay job. It did a PERFECT job!
It isn’t as nutty (pun intended) as I badly thought it would be!
And because of that, this article will be telling you how you can perfectly toast your almonds in a microwave. You’ll find some simple tips and steps that you can easily follow to do so.
Excited to go nuts yet? Well, let’s get it started!
Can you toast almonds in a microwave?
Absolutely! You can toast your almonds in a microwave (I just did it!). Using your microwave is one of the easiest and hassle-free ways to do it.
Your almonds will still have the same crunchy texture and aromatic flavor that you enjoy. Guaranteed!
Get ready to say goodbye to your skillet because toasting almonds in a microwave let out their natural oils and gives them more flavor and a wonderful texture.
You also don’t need to add additional oils or fats to your almonds before toasting them (yes, seriously.). So, you can be sure that what you enjoy is its fine and delightful natural taste.
Be sure to get your salads and desserts ready!
Is it safe to toast almonds in a microwave?
Yes! It is perfectly safe to toast your almonds in a microwave. It helps in fighting off dangerous bacteria that may enter your body if you consume them and it also lessens the risk of you burning your almonds.
Toasting almonds in a microwave does not affect the nutrients that your nuts have. It can help in preserving their nutrients so that you can get the most out of them.
Additionally, when you use your microwave, there is a lesser chance that you will end up burning the almonds you just want to toast.
The controlled heat and short and slow time increments that you need to do when using a microwave let you check on your almonds easily. It also helps in making sure that you toast them evenly on all sides.
So, if you’re someone (like me) who easily forgets that they’re toasting something on a stovetop, then your microwave is your best friend.
How long do you toast almonds in a microwave?
On average, you’ll need only about 6 to 7 minutes to perfectly toast your almonds in a microwave. Although, various factors affect how long you need to toast them.
The number of almonds you want to toast in the microwave in one go will affect how long you need to toast them.
You would want to make sure that all of your almonds are toasted evenly and equally. If you decide to microwave a whole lot all at once, they may take a bit more time than usual (and may not even toast properly – but we can solve that later).
The sizes of the almonds matter as well. So, make sure that the almonds you’re going to toast have similar sizes if not the same so that they are toasted equally and evenly.
Moreover, the wattage or power of the microwave you are using will likely change how much time you need when toasting your almonds.
I was able to toast my almonds within only 6 to 7 minutes using my microwave which has 1000 watts. So, you can expect that you would take lesser than that if you are using a microwave that has a higher wattage.
On the other hand, if you are using a microwave with a lower wattage (maybe around 800 watts), then you’ll need to spend more time toasting them.
Don’t worry because the steps that I’ll be showing you later on work perfectly fine on any microwave that you have.
How to toast almonds in a microwave?
Toasting almonds in a microwave is not as hard as you imagine it to be (it’s very easy, to be honest.). All you need to do is prepare the following:
- Almonds
- Microwave
- Fork
- Microwavable plate or pie plate
- Knife (optional)
If you want to toast your almonds faster, you may chop them up depending on how large or small you want them. But of course, you can still toast them whole.
Once you have prepared the almonds and all the materials you need, you can now proceed and follow these quick and simple steps:
- Get your microwavable plate and put the almonds on it.
Make sure that the almonds do not overlap each other. They should all be on the same layer and spaced evenly to make sure that heat is properly distributed and they are toasted properly.
- Place the plate of almonds in the microwave.
- Set the microwave heat setting to medium.
This is to make sure that you don’t burn your almonds (patience, patience).
- Let your almonds toast in the microwave for 1 minute.
- After a minute, check your almonds and stir them so that their other sides can be toasted as well.
- Put the plate of almonds back in the microwave and let it toast for another 15 seconds.
- After the given time, check on your almonds and stir them once again.
- Repeat steps 6 and 7 as necessary.
- Once your almonds are fully toasted, take them out of the microwave.
- Transfer them to a serving plate (or just use the microwavable plate – it’s hot so be careful!).
- Serve with your favorite salads and desserts or even just on its own. Enjoy!
How to know if your almonds are done toasting in the microwave?
The color of the almonds you have toasted in the microwave should be light to golden brown and they should have a toasty smell, aroma, and taste.
You may not see how your almonds are toasting inside a microwave unlike when you use a skillet. But if you follow the simple steps mentioned above and patiently watch over your toasting almonds, then all is going to go well.
How to properly store almonds toasted in the microwave?
All you need is an airtight bag or container and a cool and dry spot away from sunlight. You just have to make sure that you properly store your leftover toasted almonds so that you can still enjoy them later on.
What you need to do is put your toasted almonds in your airtight bag or container (or a simple container with a cover or lid will do) and place them somewhere cool and clean.
You can expect your toasted almonds to last for about 1 week if you store them at room temperature.
On the other hand, if you want to keep it good for a longer period, then you can also put them in the refrigerator so that it lasts for up to 1 to 2 months.
However, if you enjoyed toasting your almonds using the microwave (because it’s that good) and end up toasting too much for you to eat, then you may want to freeze some of them so that they last for about 3 to 6 months.
Conclusion
Now you know a very valuable life-changing secret – toasting almonds in a microwave is possible, very simple, efficient, and effective!
Finally, you don’t have to stress over using your skillets and stovetops to toast your favorite snack.
No more burns, no more burnt nuts – just perfectly toasted, golden, and aromatic pieces of almonds.
FAQ
How do I toast nuts to perfection?
Toasting nuts is easy and can be done in a microwave safe plate. Spread raw nuts like pine nuts, slivered almonds or sliced almonds on the plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes until they turn light golden brown. You can also toast coconut or pumpkin seeds using this method.
What are some tips for perfectly toasted nuts?
For perfectly toasted nuts, make sure to spread them evenly on a microwave safe plate before microwaving. Keep an eye on them as they cook so that they don’t burn. Once you see that the color has turned light golden brown, remove them from the microwave and let them cool down before adding them to your baked goods.
Can I use any type of nut in the microwave?
Yes! You can use any type of raw nut such as pine nuts, slivered almonds or sliced almonds when toasting in the microwave. Just make sure to spread them out evenly on a microwave safe plate before cooking.
Is it possible to over-toast my nuts in the microwave?
Yes, it is possible to over-toast your nuts if you leave them in too long. Keep an eye on their color while cooking – once they turn light golden brown, remove from heat immediately so that they don’t burn.
What are some benefits of using a microwave safe plate when toasting my nuts?
Using a microwave safe plate allows for even heating which results in perfectly toasted nuts every time! Plus, it’s quick and easy – just spread out your raw pine nuts or slivered almonds onto the plate and pop into the microwave for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden brown.
How can I make raw almonds into a nutritious snack with rich flavor?
To turn raw almonds into a healthy snack with a rich flavor, you can roast them in an even layer in the toaster oven or microwave method. Use neutral cooking oil like olive oil to coat the nuts and lightly brown them for optimal cooking time. Once done, store them in an airtight container left at room temperature.
What is the best way to cook raw almonds?
The best way to cook raw almonds is by roasting them either in the toaster oven or using the microwave method. Coat the nuts with neutral cooking oil like olive oil and spread them out evenly on a baking sheet before lightly browning for optimal cooking time.
Can I use any type of oil when roasting raw almonds?
It’s recommended that you use neutral cooking oils such as olive oil when roasting raw almonds. This will help enhance their natural flavors while also ensuring they are cooked evenly and not burnt.
Is it necessary to roast raw almonds before eating?
While it’s not necessary to roast raw almonds before eating, doing so can bring out their natural flavors and create a more enjoyable snacking experience. Roast your nuts either in the toaster oven or using the microwave method until they are lightly browned for optimal cooking time.
How do I store roasted nuts properly?
To ensure your roasted nuts stay fresh, store them in an airtight container left at room temperature. This will prevent moisture from getting inside and causing spoilage while also preserving their crunchy texture and delicious taste over time.