Almonds have been in prevalence for thousands of years. They have high nutritional value and are used in various cuisines for their unique nutty flavour. But most of us don’t know the origin and history of these delicious dry fruits. Here is what you need to know about almonds:

Origin of Almonds

Almonds are known to have originated in Central and Western Asia. They flourished in the wild and were cultivated in 4000 BC after domestication by our ancestors. However, the exact location where they first grew is not known.

Silk Road Travellers

Between 600-900AD, explorers travelling through the Eurasian trade routes, also called the ‘Silk Road’, between Asia and the Mediterranean used to carry almonds for their long travels as a part of nutritious diet. They dispersed the kernels across Spain and Italy which helped in the spread of almonds abroad.

The First Almond Groves in California

Although the first almond groves were planted in California in the mid-1700s, the Californian soil wasn’t suited for them. It took an additional 100 years to create a cross-breed of almonds that was adapted to the climate of California.

Almonds Over the History

There is evidence that suggests that almonds have been enjoyed for thousands of years for their high energy and nutritional value. It was enjoyed as a snack even in the 4th century BC by ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, who was buried with almonds to provide him in the afterlife.

Referenced in Manuscripts

There are also mentions of almonds and almond trees in historical manuscripts like the Bible, in which the almond blossom is represented as a symbol of hope while the fruit is seen as a sign of luxury and good fortune. It has been passed down through Romans into many generations and cultures.

Almonds Today

Even today, like in earlier times, almonds are seen as a symbol of good luck and are exchanged as a gift on auspicious occasions. They are also used as ingredient in many cuisines and to make vegan products as well. California is the largest supplier of almonds with around 80% of the world’s produce.