Hazelnuts are the nut of the hazel tree, native to Europe & the Caucasus Mountains. Species of hazel tree are now widespread in Africa, Asia, and North America. The edible part is within a hard outer shell that's difficult to crack.

Archaeologists have found evidence of hazelnut consumption almost 10,000 years ago. Hazelnuts were considered sacred in ancient China (2000 BC) and used in Greek medicinal recipes around 40 AD.

They resurged in popularity in 1946 when baker Pietro Ferrero invented Nutella, a chocolate-hazelnut spread. (Read more about chocolate-nut butters here!) Ferrero, the maker of Nutella and Ferrero Rocher, uses 25% of the global supply of hazelnuts.

There is a huge economic value in hazelnuts, exceeding $800 million. In the United States, 99% of hazelnuts are produced in Oregon's Willamette Valley. However this represents only 5% of the world's supply. Turkey produces 75% of the global hazelnut supply.

Hazelnuts are sometimes called "filberts" - a name which comes from St. Philbert of France. He was celebrated at the same time as the hazelnut harvest, i.e. August 20.

Hazelnut butter is a good source of fat, protein, manganese, folate, copper, selenium, vitamin A and vitamin E.

Want to try making your own? Check out DIY Nut Butter Guide.
Suggested Flavor Pairings: chocolate, maca, cinnamon, orange