Nut butter

Nut butter is a type of spread made from ground nuts. The most common type is peanut butter, but other varieties include almond butter, cashew butter, and hazelnut butter. Nut butters can be used in a variety of recipes, or simply spread on bread or toast.

History

The use of nuts in cooking dates back to prehistoric times, but the invention of nut butter is a relatively recent development. The first patent for a process to make peanut butter was granted to Marcellus Gilmore Edson in 1884.

Production

Nut butters are produced by grinding nuts into a paste. The process can be done at home with a food processor or blender, but commercial nut butters are typically made using industrial equipment. Some nut butters, like peanut butter, may have additional ingredients such as salt, sugar, or hydrogenated oil to improve taste and texture.

Nutrition

Nut butters are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. However, they are also high in calories, so they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Varieties

There are many different types of nut butter, each with its own unique flavor and nutritional profile. Some of the most popular include:

• Peanut butter: Made from roasted peanuts, this is the most common type of nut butter. It is high in protein and a good source of vitamins and minerals.
• Almond butter: Made from ground almonds, this butter is a good source of vitamin E and magnesium.
• Cashew butter: This butter is made from cashews and has a creamy texture. It is a good source of magnesium and copper.
• Hazelnut butter: Made from hazelnuts, this butter has a rich, sweet flavor. It is a good source of vitamin E and healthy fats.

See also

• List of spreads
• Peanut allergy
• Health effects of salt