Hazelnuts – The Crunchy Delight Packed with Flavor and Nutrition

Hazelnuts, also known as filberts or cobnuts, are one of the most beloved nuts in the culinary world. With their rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch, hazelnuts are a staple in everything from gourmet desserts to hearty salads. But these tasty nuts offer more than just taste—they're a powerhouse of nutrients and a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

Where Do Hazelnuts Come From?

Hazelnuts are primarily grown in Turkey, which produces about 70% of the world’s supply, followed by Italy, the United States (especially Oregon), and Spain. These small brown nuts grow on hazel trees and are typically harvested in late summer to early fall.

Flavor Profile and Culinary Uses

Hazelnuts have a naturally sweet, slightly earthy flavor that intensifies when roasted. They're often used in baking—think chocolate-hazelnut spreads, pralines, and biscotti—but they also shine in savory dishes. Crushed hazelnuts can be used as a crust for meats or fish, sprinkled on roasted vegetables, or added to grain bowls for extra crunch.

Health Benefits of Hazelnuts

• Rich in healthy fats: Hazelnuts are high in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
• Packed with vitamins: They're an excellent source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant.
• Good for your brain: Containing folate, manganese, and thiamine, hazelnuts support cognitive function.
• High in fiber: Just a handful a day can support healthy digestion and keep you feeling full.

Hazelnuts Around the World

In Italy, hazelnuts are a key ingredient in gianduja, the heavenly chocolate-hazelnut blend that inspired Nutella. In the Middle East, they’re used in pastries and ground into pastes. In France, praline made from caramelized hazelnuts is a patisserie favorite. Wherever you go, you’re likely to find a local specialty that makes the most of this nut’s delicious potential.

How to Store Hazelnuts

Keep hazelnuts fresh by storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For long-term storage, refrigerate or freeze them to prevent the oils from going rancid. Roasted hazelnuts tend to have a shorter shelf life than raw ones, so consume them within a few weeks for optimal flavor.

Try It at Home

Looking for an easy way to enjoy hazelnuts? Toast them lightly in a dry pan until fragrant, then sprinkle over a green salad with goat cheese and apples. Or, blend them into a homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread for a delicious treat without the additives.

Discover Hazelnut Recipes on the Map

Explore hazelnut-infused recipes from around the globe on yummy.world. From Italian tortes to Turkish confections, our interactive map helps you discover and cook the world, one ingredient at a time.