Macadamia nuts are often classified as “true nuts”, but strictly speaking, they are actually a type of pod fruit. However, we're not here to count peas, because what's certain is that macadamia nuts are simply unbelievably delicious and have been highly valued since ancient times by the Aboriginal people of Australia. This is also where all macadamia varieties originate. Other cultivation countries today include New Zealand, South Africa, California, and Hawaii. Thanks to their ideal climatic conditions, these regions are among the largest producers of this sweet nut fruit.
However, the reason we refer to them as macadamia nuts today is owed to the German botanist Ferdinand von Mueller. He named the nut after his friend and colleague John Macadam. How did it earn its nickname “Queen of Nuts”? The cultivation of macadamia nuts requires high standards, making it very labor-intensive. So, whenever you buy macadamia nuts, you're purchasing one of the most expensive nuts in the world.
The world of macadamia nuts
The macadamia tree belongs to the Proteaceae family and can reach a height of up to 18 meters. Its flowers appear alongside the leaves in cream-colored or pink hues. The tree produces stone fruits measuring approximately 2-4 cm in size, which initially shine in a light green color and later turn dark brown. Within the fruit lies the hard, difficult-to-crack stone containing the macadamia nut.
In addition to a subtropical or tropical climate, ample sunlight, and high humidity, the Macadamia tree requires high-quality soil and careful maintenance. It takes approximately 7 years before it bears fruit for the first time.
Once they reach the appropriate ripeness, macadamia nuts are carefully harvested. This involves waiting for them to naturally fall from the tree, collecting them, drying them, and then gently cracking open their hard shells. Following this, they undergo further processing and transportation.
The beneficial components of macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts contain a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids as well as Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats. They are rich in vitamin B, calcium, iron, and phosphorus. Additionally, they are an excellent source of dietary fiber. Macadamia nuts are uniquely delicious and are ideal for a balanced diet.
