Almond and Hemp Butter.

Homemade nut butters are healthy, affordable and even more delicious than store-bought. They are easy to make too, however you’ll need a high powered food processor/blender or a thermomix.

In this recipe, the slow roasted almonds add a deep rich flavour to the butter (roasting also makes for a smoother, runnier nut butter). Almonds are a great source of plant protein, natural fats, antioxidants, calcium and fibre. Hemp seeds add additional nutrients such as omega-3 fats, iron and zinc.

Nut butters are a staple in my house as they are an easy nutrient rich addition to meals and snacks (toast, bliss balls, spread on fruit, smoothies, pasta sauce, muesli bars). I also enjoy this one straight from the spoon!

- Renee

Ingredients

2 cups raw almonds

1/3 cup hemp seeds

1 tablespoon raw honey or maple syrup

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch salt

Method

Preheat oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

Place almonds on the tray in a single layer. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, turning once half way. Allow to cool.

Add almonds and hemp seeds to a high powered food processor or thermomix.

Blend for 30 second intervals (to give your machine a break and to scrape down the sides), for 5-10 minutes or until smooth and runny (if it’s not runny, blend it for longer).

Once you are happy with the consistency, add the honey, cinnamon and salt. Blend for a further 30 seconds.

Store in a glass jar in the pantry for 1 month or in the fridge for 3 months.

Notes:

• If your 'butter' is not very runny, you either need to blend it for longer, or your almonds need to be roasted for longer.

• If you are using maple syrup, make sure it is 100% maple syrup without any added water (water will prevent the butter from becoming runny and smooth).