Nuts

Whole

Whole hazelnut means the intact traded unit—in shell or as unbroken shelled kernels— before chopping, grinding, or pressing. Buying whole gives control over roast level, skin removal, and grind size compared with pre-ground meal of unknown age. Cracked open, the meat should smell sweet and nutty, never like paint. Hollow rattles, mould, or damp stains mean reject the lot. In-shell stock often keeps longer when cool and dry; shelled wholes are ready for the oven but need colder, faster turnover. Kitchen uses span holiday bowls, gianduja prep, cakes, and oil pressing. Freeze shelled surplus. Major tree-nut allergen rules apply once meats are exposed. Grade attractive wholes for garnish and broken stock for doughs and pastes where geometry disappears.