Nuts are one of the tastiest alternatives for healthy snacks when consumed regularly and in a balanced way. However, natural compounds in some nuts can make their absorption and digestion difficult. Simply soaking nuts in water can reduce these compounds and obtain some benefits. Let’s find answers to our questions, such as why we should soak nuts in water and how long we should soak them.
Why is Soaking Nuts in Water Important?
Soaking nuts in water provides some potential benefits. Here are some of them:
- Phytic Acid: Phytic acid in nuts limits the absorption of minerals and some nutrients. For example, phytic acid found in nuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds prevents the absorption of minerals such as iron, zinc, and calcium. Soaking nuts in water reduces phytic acid and increases nutrient absorption.
- Easier Digestion: Soaking nuts in water softens the shells and makes digestion easier.
- Cleaning: Sometimes, nuts may have dirt, dust, or other pollutants on their surface. Putting nuts in water helps to remove the impurities on them and obtain a cleaner product.
- Removing Shells: Some nuts have tough shells. In this case, removing the nut from the cover may be difficult. For example, soaking the shells of nuts such as almonds and walnuts in water makes them softer and easier to peel.
How Long Should Nuts Be Soaked?
The soaking time for nuts varies depending on the type of nut. Usually, soaking for 6-8 hours is sufficient. This time is longer for nuts with more rigid shells.
How to Soak Nuts in Water?
This process is quite simple. Put the nuts in a container filled with drinking water and ensure they are entirely submerged. Remove the nuts and rinse them thoroughly when the soaking is completed. Place the nuts on a paper towel or a clean cloth to dry. You can soak the nuts in the amount you consume or in larger quantities. If you store the soaked nuts for later consumption, ensure they are dehydrated. Otherwise, you may risk damaging the benefits of drinking the nuts.
Finally, soaking nuts in water should be consumed as part of a balanced and varied diet like any other food.