Hazelnuts

These wild nuts grow in clusters on the hazel tree in temperate zones around the world. The fuzzy outer husk opens as the nut ripens, revealing a hard, smooth shell. Italy, Spain, France and Turkey lead the way in hazelnut production. Until the 1940s, the United States imported most hazelnuts; however, they\'re now grown in Oregon and Washington. Also called filberts and cobnuts, particularly when cultivated, these sweet, rich, grape-size nuts are used chopped, ground and whole in all manner of sweets. They also add flavor and texture to savory items such as salads and main dishes. Hazelnuts are usually packaged whole, though some producers are now also offering them chopped - a real timesaver.

Hazelnuts can be roasted using a conventional oven and a cookie sheet. The oven should be preheated to 275°. Place shelled natural hazelnuts on a non-greased cookie sheet only one layer high. Place in warm oven for 20 to 30 minutes until the skins crack and the nutmeats turn a light golden color. You can also roast them at higher temperatures for a shorter period of time or microwave on full power for 3 to 4 minutes.

The skins are quite tight on Oregon Hazelnuts; however, roasting will loosen a considerable amount of the skin. If you want more of the skin removed, pour the nuts onto a clean terry-cloth towel and wrap it closed. Let the nuts steam for 4 to 5 minutes then rub vigorously for 1 to 3 minutes. Rub longer to remove more skin.

Storing shelled hazelnuts in an airtight bag or container in a freezer will keep them fresh and flavorful for a year or more. Storing hazelnuts in the refrigerator between 32° and 35° is the next best place, however; still keep in an airtight and odorless container. Nuts should be allowed to warm to room temperature before using in baking or cooking applications. Properly stored hazelnuts will provide wonderful flavor and texture to most any food, and can be used as a substitute in recipes that call for nuts.