Almonds are among the most popular nuts, packed with many nutrients – including protein and fibre. Apart from that, they are a powerhouse of vitamin E, which helps protect your body cells from damage.
And so, eating them is a must, and while many people may eat them raw or roasted, doctors always recommend you soak them before consuming.
Why should you soak the almonds before consuming them?
Helps ease digestion
Almonds can be difficult to digest for some people, as they are extremely hard. And so, doctors say soaking them overnight makes these tree nuts easier for your body to break down. Additionally, soaking makes almonds easier to chew, thereby increasing their nutrient availability.
Since almonds also contain many antinutrients that can impair the absorption of certain nutrients, soaking is the best way to increase their effectiveness.
Reduces phytic acid
Almonds contain phytic acid – a plant compound that inhibits the absorption of minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium. However, soaking or sprouting almonds significantly reduces their levels, thereby improving nutrient absorption.
Even though phytic acid is an antinutrient, it also possesses antioxidant properties and should not be completely eliminated.
Improves brain function
Almonds are popularly known as brain food since they are rich in riboflavin and L-carnitine, two nutrients that enhance the performance of the brain and memory. Consuming soaked almonds on an empty stomach can be particularly helpful because it enables your brain to absorb these nutrients readily, and there is an improvement in concentration and mental clarity throughout the day.
Has better taste
Overnight soaking of almonds affects their texture and taste, which, for many people, is better than the raw ones since they are hard and crunchy, with a slightly bitter flavour. When soaked, they become softer, less bitter, and more buttery, which is a great appeal – especially for children and the elderly.
How can you easily soak almonds?
It is super easy and convenient to soak almonds overnight, which you can do by:
- Place almonds in a bowl, add slightly warm water to fully cover them, and sprinkle around a teaspoon of salt.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit on your countertop overnight, or for 8 to 12 hours.
- Drain and rinse the next day.
- You can also remove the skins for a smoother texture.
- Pat the almonds dry using a clean paper towel.
- Eat the soaked nuts immediately, and for a crunchier twist, you can dry them via roasting or dehydrating in the oven or air fryer.
Are unsoaked almonds good too?
While soaking does lead to improvements in digestion and nutrient availability, unsoaked almonds are also still a healthy addition to your diet. According to experts, the nuts are a great source of fibre, protein, and healthy fats, as well as an excellent source of vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium. The skin of almonds is packed with antioxidants – polyphenols, which protect against various deadly chronic illnesses, including cancer.