Sweet almonds have a subtle fragrance that lends itself well to baking and also works well with fish and chicken. Classic almond dishes include trout and almonds, Bakewell tart, Tarta de Santiago, macaroons and frangipane tart as well as a variety of cakes, soups, stews and curries.

Bitter almonds are used to make oil, extract and liqueurs such as Amaretto.

The United States dominates the global production of almonds followed by Spain and Italy. You can buy almonds shelled or unshelled, ground, chopped or flaked and ready-toasted.

Ground almonds are sometimes used instead of, or as well as, flour in baking. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option then a cake made in this way is a good alternative. Cakes made with almonds have a distinct nutty flavour and a moist texture. Popular cake covering, marzipan, is made from ground almonds and sugar syrup.