Soaked almonds, also known as activated almonds, have been cherished by Middle Eastern people since ancient times. A whole foods snack that provides an easy way to curb cravings at any time of the day.
What Are Soaked Almonds?
Soaked almonds are almonds that have been submerged in water for an extended period, typically overnight. This process softens the kernels, making them easier to chew and digest.
Enjoyed as a popular snack or used in recipes like Lebanese spiced meghli pudding, soaked almonds have been a part of my diet since childhood. They are quite addictive and, in my opinion, taste better than unsoaked almonds.
You'll often find soaked almonds served in Middle Eastern restaurants or clubs, either as part of an appetizer with soaked lupini beans or included in a mezze spread.
They are also a popular snack served to guests as part of home hospitality.
Whenever I introduce activated almonds to my non-Arab guests, they invariably ask, "How do you prepare them like this?" So, I've included the instructions in the recipe card below.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Benefits
While there is conflicting information about soaked almond benefits, here are a number of reasons to make your own batch with a link to the source.
Soaking almonds is much easier to digest, helping the digestive system absorb all of its essential nutrients.
A study published in the Journal of Food Science (1), found that eating raw, soaked almonds helped empty the stomach faster and also made digesting proteins easier.
Eating almonds this way deactivates the enzyme inhibiting compound (found on the skin of the almond) and initiates the release of an essential lipase, that helps in the proper breakdown of fat; further improving digestion and absorption of nutrients.
This is why they are called activated almonds. Sampath, P., 2021. 6 reasons eating soaked almonds are great for your health | TheHealthSite.com. [online] Thehealthsite.com. Available at: <https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/health-benefits-of-soaked-almonds-187740/6/> [Accessed 11 May 2021]
Janelle's Tips
- Use only whole raw almonds. Flavored or roasted almonds won't work.
- Find the freshest natural and organic dry almonds for the best results. Stale almonds will yield a horrid result, trust me I found out by accident, yuck!
- Change the water daily once the almonds are ready, as it will turn murky due to the almond skin. This step keeps the almonds fresh. If you forget, simply drain the water, rinse the almonds, and top up with fresh water.
- Ensure the almond-to-water weight ratio is 2:1 during the soaking process. The almonds will swell when soaked and need to be fully submerged.
- Although the skin of activated almonds comes off easily, it is edible.
Looking for more almond recipes? Try my addictive seeds and nuts clusters. Another favorite snack is oven-roasted pumpkin seeds without oil.
FAQ
How Long Can You Keep Soaked Almonds in The Fridge?
Store the soaked almonds in water, covered, in the fridge for up to 7 days. Covering the soaking almonds is important as it prevents the water from absorbing unwanted odors from the fridge and preserves their natural flavors. Additionally, covering food prevents cross-contamination, safeguarding against the spread of bacteria and other microorganisms. Use either an airtight container or a glass bowl sealed with cling wrap.
Do Soaked Almonds Go Bad?
Yes, soaked almonds can go bad. Fresh soaked almonds are firm yet softer to eat and hold their shape well. At the 5-7 day mark, they will start to become soggy, and the water will turn murky quickly. At this point, it is best to discard or compost them.
How To Eat Activated Almonds
- Enjoy them plain, their mild sweetness is enhanced when eaten this way, they have better taste in my opinion.
- Add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice for a citrus flavor. This is the best way! Yum!
- Try a sprinkle of salt if desired.
Did you make this? I'd love to know! Leave me a comment below with a ★★★★★ rating or tag @plantbasedfolk on social media.
Recipe
Soaked Almonds
Instructions
- Place the almonds in a soaking container and add enough water to ensure they are completely submerged. Seal the container well and store it in the refrigerator for at least overnight.
- When ready to serve, scoop out the desired portion, drain the water, and serve cold. For storage duration and serving suggestions, refer to the above article.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
N.B., nutrition info is an estimate based on an online nutrition calculator. This will vary based on the specific ingredients you use.
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Uma
I soak almonds almost every week. And i make almond yogurt out of this. I know this is one of the best plant based protein source.
Sylvia
We heard about soaking almonds, but were not sure how to do it so this site was an excellent help.
Janelle Hama
Glad to be of help! It's great to hear I was able to assist you. Enjoy your delicious, soaked almonds! 🙂
Angel
added these to the meghli recipe of yours and snacking on these too. please keep sharing your recipes, I'm glad I found your food. Thanks alot