Hazelnuts

About

Hazelnuts are also called filberts.

Choosing

For convenience, look for shelled nuts.

Storage

Store all nuts airtight in a cool place. You can store shelled nuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about four months and in the freezer for about six months. Whole nutmeats keep longer than chopped or ground. Unroasted nuts keep longer than roasted.

Cooking

They deliciously accompany salads, desserts, and pasta. The skins are bitter; remove them by roasting hazelnuts in a 350 degree oven 10-15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Transfer nuts to a towel and rub together. Roasting improves the taste as well. Cool completely before chopping or grinding.

Nutrition

Hazelnuts are lower in fat than other nuts and high in vitamins B and E.