Originally, I was introduced to this magnificent nut while in Hawaii, form that point on it was my favorite. As you probably know they are very versatile enhancing pastries, desserts, salads, and are even used to create meat and fish delicacies. Thank God for this national holiday since it has reintroduced me to this perfect nut. You see a while back I heard this nut had the most amount of fat, so it fell out of favor. But today I found out that that characteristic is a good thing.
Well known facts. Originating in Australia, Macadamia nuts were brought to Hawaii in 1881, today 90% of the worlds production of the nut are grown there. The biggest consumer is America with 51%, Japan is the next most consumer at 15%. It is one of the hardest nuts to crack, needing 300 lbs. per square inch. They are harvested only AFTER they fall from the tree.
Bad news. Macadamia nuts are the most expensive in the world, most recently priced at $25 a pound (next in line are Pine nuts at $23 lb.). Partly because it takes 7-10 years to produce the first crop, but the upside to the Macadamia nut tree is that it can live to 100 years old. It is also one nut (like Walnuts, Hazelnuts, and Hickory nuts) that is toxic to dogs and cats!!
Good news. Even though the Macadamia nut is 80% fat, it is primarily monounsaturated fatty acid (“good” fat) which can lower heart disease risk and even cholesterol levels. Other health benefits include helping blood sugar levels and anemia (being high in iron and copper), great for brain health (due to various acids including Omega 9 fatty acids), the low amount carbohydrates make it a good weight loss aid, the high amount of fiber (both soluble and insoluble) helps with digestive health, they provide 3 minerals that support bone strength, and macadamias are supercharged with antioxidants. Another way to benefits from macadamia nut is to use it in oil form which can enhance hair growth and provide long term benefits for the skin when applied regularly.
In short it is the KING OF NUTS! Actually, in many parts of the worldnit is called the “King of Nuts” (most definitely in my house). Having originated in Australia it is also known as the Queensland nut. In any case, celebrate this National Holiday by doing something good for yourself… consume some Macadamia nuts however you choose…. mmmmmm!