Numerous important vitamins and minerals, such as thiamin, calcium, copper, phosphorus, and vitamin B, are abundant in Brazil nuts. The nuts are a source of complete protein and are high in fiber and monounsaturated fats. Selenium, a substance that can help activate potent antioxidants in the body that support healthy thyroid and hormone function, and magnesium, a mineral essential to hundreds of biochemical processes, are both abundant in Brazil nuts. Brazil nuts should only be ingested in moderation since too much selenium in the body might have negative effects.

History of Brazil Nuts

• Brazil nuts are native to the lowland areas of the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. The nuts have been a staple part of the diet of native people in these regions for over 11,000 years, with evidence of their use tracing back to the Upper Paleolithic Era. The nuts were introduced to Spanish and Portuguese conquistadors in 1569 as they explored the area, but they were difficult to harvest and transport, so the explorers did not bring them back to Europe.
• The nuts were eventually introduced to Europe a few decades later by Dutch Traders but did not grow in popularity until the 19th century when the Christmas celebration in England became a lavish affair, featuring bowlfuls of raw mixed nuts.
• Brazil nuts were introduced to the United States in the 1800s, and over the next century, the nuts were used in tins of mixed nuts throughout the country in the early to mid-20th century. Today, Brazil nuts are the most economically important non-timber forest products in the Amazon basin. Nearly 21,000 metric tons are exported to the United Kingdom, United States, and Germany annually. Brazil nuts can be found in containers of mixed nuts throughout the United States or at shops specializing in fresh nuts.

Health Benefits of Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts contain beneficial nutrients and minerals, including selenium. They may also help support your thyroid function and overall health. According to Healthline, the following benefits are found in the Brazil nuts.

• Packed with nutrients
• Rich in selenium
• Support thyroid function
• May help with thyroid disorders
• Reduces inflammation
• Good for the heart
• Amazing for the brain

Application of Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts have a mildly sweet and woodsy flavor that lends itself to a variety of applications. The nuts are commonly enjoyed right out of hand and can be eaten raw, blanched, or roasted.

• The nuts can also be soaked and turned into nut milk
• Can be blended to create nut cheeses and butter.
• Pureed Brazil nuts add a punch of nutrition and creamy texture to fruit smoothies, cakes, and desserts.
• Brazil nuts pair well with dark chocolate to create delicious candy and confections and in brittle with other nuts like almonds and walnuts.
• The slightly bitter and vegetal qualities of the nut make them the perfect crunchy addition to fresh salads.
• Roast and add them to pasta with asiago cheese and broccoli rabe, or blend with basil and parsley to create a delicious pesto.

N/B

Brazil nuts have high-fat content and can spoil quickly. For the best quality, purchase the nuts in smaller quantities and keep them fresh in the freezer. If the nuts taste overly bitter, are rancid, or have a molded aroma, they have likely spoiled and should be discarded immediately.