The rich buttery snacks known as macadamia nuts may be enjoyed all across the globe, but in Hawaii, these delectable bites are more than just another nut.
Macadamias originated in the rainforests of eastern Australia thousands of years ago and were named after physician and chemist, John Macadam, who encouraged the cultivation of the nuts in the land down under.
Today, most of the world’s supply is grown right here in Hawaii, where we have more than 700 macadamia nut farms and eight processing plants. That’s a whole lot of nuts!
Hawaiian-grown macadamia nuts are harvested and processed year round, and are therefore naturally fresher products than those coming from industrial farms in countries such as Australia and South Africa – making our macadamias even more desirable.
Not only are these crunchy treats good for your taste buds, they also benefit your health. Macadamias are a rich source of energy, high in dietary fiber, gluten-free, high in mono-unsaturated fat (good fat) and contain important minerals and vitamins.
To celebrate this delicacy, September 4 is coined National Macadamia Nut Day, where macadamia lovers cook up their favorite nutty snacks and also use the holiday as an excuse to grub on a crunchy handful.
If you’re in the baking mood and would like to create some macadamia masterpieces, here are some mouthwatering recipes that will make you go nuts for macadamias.
Deep-Fried Mahi-Mahi Macadamia Nut Fingers
Photo via Bahamas Sport Fishing Network
In true Hawaiian spirit, Bahamas Sport Fishing Network shows us how to incorporate island favorites like pineapple, papaya and mahi-mahi into your macadamia fix. These delicious fingers can be served with a side of tropical marmalade and topped off with hints of mango, cilantro and lime to bring an assortment of fresh flavors to the dish.
Chocolate Macadamia Truffle Mousse Pie
Photo via Mauna Loa
Sweet. Chocolate. Macadamia. Those three words define this scrumptious dessert that incorporates macadamias in such a delectable way. Mauna Loa’s recipe uses the nuts in both the pie crust and as a garnish. Yum!
Macadamia Nut-Pesto Fettuccine
Photo via Be Plant Based
Macadamia in pesto? Might sound a bit kooky, but it actually gives the pasta a creamier texture than other types of nuts would. Another perk: this dish is under 400 calories! Check out the recipe here.
Coconut Macadamia Nut Waffles
Photo via A Spicy Perspective
Another island-inspired recipe, coconut macadamia nut waffles are all about adding tropical punches to ordinary waffles. A Spicy Perspective uses coconut milk and shredded coconut along with roasted macadamia nuts to create this finger-lickin’ dish.
Macadamia Nut Chicken Breasts
Photo via Food.com
Add some crunch to your chicken breasts by using macadamia nuts to make a thick crust that will keep the chicken moist and add a rich nutty flavor. Top off your creation with mango salsa, pineapple or chutney. Click here for the full recipe.
Which crunchy macadamia recipe will you be cooking up this Macadamia Nut Day? Let us know in the comments below.
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