To appease the taste buds of their health-conscious clientele, hoteliers & restaurateurs are opting forwalnuts to add flavour to every course from savoury appetisers to hearty entrées and desserts.
Today the health conscious are lapping up plant-based foods as they know it’s a healthy way of eating. And, walnuts are definitely figuring in their list of healthy plant-based foods. After all, walnuts are nutrient powerhouses comprising polyunsaturated fat (13g/18g), plant-based protein (4g/28g), fibre (2g/28g) and omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). In fact, walnuts are the only tree nut to provide an excellent source of ALA – the plant-based form of Omega-3. In 28 grams (12-14 halves; ¼ cup) there are 2.5 grams of ALA which is five times more than the amount found in the next highest nut!
Going by the treasure trove of nutrients walnuts pack in, it’s not really surprising that they are becoming an integral part of hotel and restaurant menus. Hoteliers and restaurateurs are opting for walnuts to add flavour, crunch and depth to every course from savoury appetisers, to hearty entrées and desserts.
Emerging as the food of choice
Also, considering the times that we’re living in, the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently suggested incorporating foods like walnuts into one’s diet to maintain optimal immune function and good health. As per FSSAI Eat Right During COVID-19 Guidelines, Vitamin-B rich plant-based foods such as walnuts helps strengthen the nervous and immune system. It’s no wonder then that walnuts are emerging as the food of choice during these trying times.
Walnuts are often touted as ‘super nuts’
Did you know that walnuts have been identified as a nutrient dense food choice on several nutrient density ranking scales? The convenience, flavour, and versatility of these ‘super nuts’ combined with their nutrient profile make them an ideal, economical ingredient and snack. In addition, walnuts are naturally gluten-free.
Over the years, research has proven that walnuts are packed with nutrients to support the heart, brain, and gut. Not only do they have prebiotic properties that enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, but they also are an excellent source of omega-3 ALA, which is essential for heart health. ALA helps to maintain normal cholesterol levels as part of a balanced diet. Research also suggests that antioxidants may help to protect from certain chronic diseases of aging, including neurological and carcinogenic ailments due to their ability to control free radicals – known to negatively influence healthy aging. Walnuts are known for their high antioxidant content. Walnuts also contain numerous other vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of magnesium and phosphorus – both important minerals involved in the body’s processes and necessary for achieving optimal wellness! It’s easy to comprehend why walnuts are considered to be ‘super nuts’.
A versatile option in hotels and restaurants
A walnut can lend itself beautifully to the preparation of all kinds of meals. It is one of the most versatile nuts you could possibly find. One can eat walnuts as a healthy snack, use them to boost the nutritional
value of meals, and even fold them into the batter to make the most decadent banana bread. Hotels and restaurants can use this vastly versatile nut to add texture, crunch, and nutrition to meals. Walnuts add a wonderful crunch and texture to all kinds of salads. They can be sprinkled on greens or one can put together a delicious salad finished with chopped walnuts. Alternately, they can be lightly roasted and served with veggies and some crumbled cheese.
Turning walnuts into a rich, creamy paste can help thicken curries and soups. All one needs to do is blitz together some walnuts and some olive oil (garlic and chilies are optional) to make a paste. Also, a tomatobased sauce using walnuts can be used as a meat substitute to make dishes, or create a lovely, crunchy crust of walnuts on fish.
The usage of walnuts in baked goods is absolutely legendary. Think of banana bread or chocolate brownies, and one instantly thinks of walnuts. They add bite to any dessert, and more importantly, they pair really well with chocolate. Walnuts can be dipped in some melted chocolate and refrigerated before serving. So, whether it’s a craving for something sweet or a desire for a savoury meal, walnuts can be always relied on.
As per FSSAI Eat Right During COVID-19 Guidelines, plant-based foods such as walnuts help strengthen the immune system”
Smita kulshreshth
