To remove the thin skin on almonds is pretty easy to do and makes a big difference in the end. Blanched almonds is ideally what you use when making marzipan and a variety of cookies and cakes since the skin on the almonds can leave a bitter taste. 
First of all, bring a pot of water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the almonds to the pot. Let cook for about 45 seconds to 1 minute, until the almonds start to shrivel up a bit. Do not cook the almonds any longer than one minute, as that might result in a chewy texture. 
Drain the water and let the almonds cool slightly.
 Now all you do is take an almond in your hands and rub the skin off it. They can be a bit slippery, however overall it's pretty easy to do. 
Now you're ready to make cookies, candies and cakes, or simply dip them in melted chocolate for a nice treat.
|