Friday, February 8, 2019

Try Mixed Nut Butters For Baked Goods And Treats

By Amy Foster


When it comes time to make snack replacements for kids and those trying to watch what they eat, it always helps to go with something that tastes like junk food. The reason is that some like the taste of sugar but parents may want something that is filling. By adding mixed nut butters to snacks, this can cut down on the bad stuff, like excess calories and fat.

While not quite as sweet or expensive as cashew butter, the mixed nut version has a slight hint that comes from its blend of almonds, hazelnuts, and pecans. Because this product also contains Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and walnuts, there are many nutrients that make this a satisfying snack. This is great for those who have little time for a seated meal but do not want to give in to junk food cravings.

Although the cost is generally more than most peanut butter products, it helps to take a look at the ingredient label. Most natural mixed nut butter contain only roasted nuts and a little sea salt. The cheap brands use a lot of oils, sugars, and products that take away the natural nutty flavor. There is no need to add oil because roasted nuts make their own oil.

Natural nut butter is also versatile, as they can be used with sweet and savory meals. Instead of having a slice of apple pie for dessert, try slicing a whole apple served with a teaspoon of nut butter. Most people would not think of this being a fiber rich snack but it is also loaded with nutrients.

Besides desserts and snacks, this can also be used for main entrees. Internation dishes like pad thai and peanut chicken stew are popular dishes that traditionally call for peanut butter or ground peanuts for the sauce. There are also some people who like to use spicy peanut sauce for fish, poultry, and even as a replacement for traditional pizza sauce.

This product is also recommended for those on special diets that call for fewer or no carbohydrates. Although many dieters have reasons to restrict their food choices, it is always best to keep those items that are high in protein. Many vegans and vegetarians find natural nut butter to be a good choice for keeping their energy levels in check.

These are also good for most recipes that call for peanuts or a butter. Some of these dishes can be rich in calories but the best alternative is to look at the label and compare the calories, fat, and sodium. Then, if possible, try to calculate how many other fats, oils, or sugars will be added to a recipe. For instance, it may be possible to remove stick butter in baked goods.

Although some products may claim to be high in protein or essential to heart health, it helps to be informed. Consumers should get into the habit of reading labels for the sake of their health. This holds especially true for shelf stable products that contain salt, as high amounts of sodium can cause a number of chronic ailments like elevated blood pressure.




About the Author: