Chapter 6 - Nuts and Legumes Flashcards

Nuts Overview

• Edible kernels of dried fruits from trees and plants, enclosed in a tough shell.

Classification of Nuts

• Classified into three main groups:
  • Tree nuts: Grown on trees.
  • Ground nuts: Grown underground.
  • Seeds: Contained in woody pods or cones.

Tree Nuts

• Examples include almonds, cashews, coconuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts.
• Characterized by a hard outer shell and a fleshy center, similar to stone fruits like peaches and plums.

Ground Nuts

• Peanuts are classified as ground nuts despite not being true nuts; they are seeds of a tropical legume.
• Grown underground, with woody fruit capsules that push into the soil until they mature.

Seeds

• Examples include Brazil nuts, bunya nuts, and pine nuts.
• Contained within large woody pods or cones.

Selection and Storage of Nuts

• Nuts can quickly become stale, especially when shelled; buy in small amounts.
• Best stored in a cool, dry, dark place and in non-reactive containers (glass or plastic).
• Unshelled nuts have a longer shelf life than shelled nuts.
• In hot weather, refrigeration is recommended to extend freshness.

Nutritional Properties of Nuts

• Rich source of:
  • Protein
  • Fat
  • Calcium
  • B Vitamins
  • Magnesium
  • Vitamin E

Functional Properties of Nuts

• High fat content allows for easy browning when toasted; can be used to produce oils like peanut oil.
• Can be ground as a flour substitute, adding volume and texture to baked goods (e.g., cakes, biscuits).
• Nut meal yields a lighter and grittier mouth-feel; lacks gluten found in traditional flour.

Legumes Overview

• Pod-bearing plants that include chickpeas, lentils, haricot beans, soybeans, and peanuts.

Pulses

• Edible seeds harvested solely for their dry grains, belonging to the legume family.

Selection and Storage of Legumes

• Available in dry or cooked forms.
• Dried legumes should be free-flowing and dry to the touch when handled.

Test your knowledge with these flashcards focusing on nuts and legumes. This quiz covers definitions and classifications, including tree nuts and ground nuts. Perfect for students seeking to enhance their understanding of botanical classifications.