Nuts

Whole Kernel

Whole tiger nut kernels are complete seed meats from the sweet tuber of Cyperus esculentus, also called chufa—not a true tree nut, not sliced or chipped, sold for snacking, topping, and controlled chopping. Intact surfaces oxidise a little slower than fine pieces and look premium on pastries and salads. Flavour should be sweet, coconut-almond-like, and crunchy when dried. Toast evenly in a low oven, shaking often, then cool fully before packing or the residual heat will soften the crunch. Use them in cooking such as Spanish horchata, West African snacks, gluten-free flours, and dairy-free milks. Species handling: soak dried tubers for drinks; mill for flour; not shelled like tree nuts. Storage: dried chufa keeps cool and dry; watch for moisture spoilage. Botanically a tuber—important for allergy communication even when sold beside nuts. Allergen: not a tree nut botanically but label for cross-contact and personal allergy histories. In comparison, a sweet tuber that plays nutty in drinks and baking. Pick out damaged kernels before service; one rancid piece is memorable for the wrong reason.