Hidden inside the little, golden orange apricot is something that resembles a stone fruit pit, and hence an object that you would ordinarily reject. However, it is much more than that. Inside is an edible kernel that, when collected, can serve as a healthful snack on its own or as a star in jams, granola, and other recipes. Apricot kernels are discovered inside the apricot's hard pit in the middle. Apricot seeds are acceptable to consume uncooked, but they can also be cooked into a snack or incorporated into other foods.
Benefits Of Apricot Kernels
1. Aids Digestive Health
Apricot seeds contain 5% fibre in each seed. Consuming them may aid to maintain digestive health because they are high in fibre. Dietary fibre, or fibre obtained from vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds, is important for the function and health of digestive system organs. Fibre maintains the health of your colon while also regulating the digestive system and functions. Eating a fibre-rich diet may improve intestinal regularity and help control excess gas and bloating. Fibre is commonly used to treat gas, diarrhoea, and constipation, and it can be ingested on a daily basis to help avoid digestive issues.
2. Anti-Inflammatory
Apricot seeds are also recognised for their anti-inflammatory properties. According to research, the fibre content of the seeds may trap acid and other toxins in the body and aid in their evacuation. According to investigations, apricot seeds may even help with severe forms of inflammation such as arthritis. Apricot kernels were found to be effective in lowering arthritic pain in a South Korean investigation on rats with arthritis.
3. Provides Calcium
Calcium, a mineral that helps strengthen bones, can be found in apricot seeds. Calcium is an essential nutrient that your body cannot create; therefore, consuming enough calcium daily is critical to your health. Calcium benefits bone health by promoting bone cell regeneration and boosting bone density. Calcium shortage can result in fragile bones that are easily broken.
Culinary Applications Of Apricot Kernels
While raw apricot kernels can be eaten, toasting them like nuts or seeds can impart a pleasantly crisp, rich flavour. Preheat the oven to 350°F, then set the raw apricot kernels on a sheet pan with a silicone mat and bake for 5 to 10 minutes. You can eat the kernels straight as a snack or use them in recipes from there. If you're preparing a fruit jam, you can add one or two raw kernels while the jam is simmering for extra taste. Apricot kernels, like almonds, have a neutral, slightly nutty flavour. They are bland, perhaps a little harsh, and occasionally sweet.
Varieties
Apricot kernels are available in two flavours: sweet and bitter. Each apricot pit usually contains one sweet and one bitter kernel. When buying apricot kernels, you'll notice that they're either sweet or bitter. While sweet kernels are naturally sweeter than bitter kernels, the taste difference between the two isn't noticeable, especially when combined in recipes.