Recipe: Roasting & Storing Natural Hazelnuts

Roasting
(or Toasting)
Hazelnuts can be roasted using a conventional oven and a cookie sheet.
The oven should be preheated to 275 . Place shelled natural hazelnuts on
an non-greased cookie sheet only one layer high. Place in warm oven for 20
to 30 minutes until the skins crack and the nut meat turn a light golden
color. You can also roast them at higher temperatures for a shorter period
of time or microwave on full power for 3 to 4 minutes.

The skins are quite tight on Oregon Hazelnuts, however, roasting will
loosen a considerable amount of the skin. If you want more of the skin
removed, pour the nuts onto a clean terry-cloth towel and wrap it closed.
Let the nuts steam for 4 to 5 minutes then rub vigorously for 1 to 3 minutes.
Rub longer to remove more skin.

Storing
Storing shelled hazelnuts in an airtight bag or container in a freezer will
keep them fresh and flavorful for a year or more. Storing hazelnuts in the
refrigerator between 32 and 35 is the next best place, however, still keep
in an airtight and odorless container. Nuts should be allowed to warm to
room temperature before using in baking or cooking applications. Properly
stored hazelnuts will provide wonderful flavor and texture to most any
food, and can be used as a substitute in recipes that call for nuts.