Almonds in Mallorca: landscape and gastronomy

As winter draws to a close, many rural areas of Mallorca are blanketed in white and pink blossoms. These are the almond trees in bloom, one of the island’s most characteristic landscapes and the source of a product that has been highly prized for generations: the Mallorcan almond.

 

The almond tree, a quintessentially Mediterranean tree

It is thought that this tree is native to Central Asia, and it was possibly the Phoenicians, great seafarers and traders, who brought it to the Iberian Peninsula. This was over 2,000 years ago, and today it is widespread throughout the Mediterranean coast. In fact, Spain is the world’s second-largest producer of almonds, a nut that features heavily in our cuisine.

 

Almond cultivation in Mallorca

In Spain there are many different varieties of almond tree, and over 70 of these varieties are grown in Mallorca. Traditionally, here on the island, almond cultivation has always been a rain-fed crop, using nothing but natural manure from livestock. Nor was the use of pesticides necessary, as any disease that might affect one variety did not attack them all. In this way, there were always healthy trees, and if necessary, the most affected ones could always be replanted, in a completely natural process.

 

The flowering of the almond trees

Normally, in late January or early February, the almond trees come into bloom. The countryside is filled with colour, with white and pink petals wherever you look. A visual spectacle that fills the countryside with life and joy. They do not last long because these flowers are fragile and delicate, but even so, many visitors come to our island especially from northern European countries to witness this wonder of nature.

 

Traditional almond harvesting in Mallorca

Between August and September, in the intense heat, the almond harvest takes place. Traditionally in Mallorca, this is done by hand, using poles with which the workers beat the branches to knock the almonds down. They are collected in nets and stored in sacks; it is manual labour and physically very demanding, not only because of the high temperatures but also because of the countless insects that end up causing itchy bites all over the body. Once this stage is complete, the leaves are removed and the almond shells are cracked open.

 

Quality of Mallorcan almonds

The island’s favourable climate, with abundant sunshine and light, and the farming methods—particularly as they are rain-fed—have resulted in Mallorcan almonds being of exceptional quality. These are varieties of almond tree that are not very productive, but the fruit contains a much higher proportion of lipids (over 55%), with oleic and linoleic acids accounting for around 90%. This gives them a delicious texture and flavour, and it is no surprise that, for decades, they have been the most highly regarded almonds among French and German pastry chefs.

 

The “Dignitat i feina” association: a social initiative

This association was set up to provide work and dignity to people facing social exclusion, offering employment in the countryside and particularly in the almond harvest. The organisation eventually closed down, but a local organic cooperative has taken up the challenge of reviving the production of the delicious soft nougat made from toasted almonds, which is also organic.

 

Almonds in Mallorcan cuisine

Given the high quality of Mallorcan almonds, it is no surprise that there are countless dishes, recipes and desserts that feature them. It is common for home cooks or restaurants to make a chopped almond mixture that greatly enhances dishes, whether they are sauces, meat or fish. As for desserts, the highlights include granitas and ice creams, nougats, certain liqueurs, and above all, the famous Mallorcan gató. This is a delicious sponge cake made from almond flour, moist and with a deep, complex flavour, which is usually served with a scoop of ice cream, also made from almonds.

 

Conclusion

Almonds continue to feature in many of Mallorca’s traditional recipes and sweets, from gató to artisan nougat. Today, there are still small producers and cooperatives keeping this culinary tradition alive on the island.

 

You can buy our famous organic toasted almond nougat from our online shop:
Buy organic roasted almond nougat