Macadamia Nuts

Preparation, uses, and tips

Macadamia nuts are sweet, with a flavour similar to coconut or Brazil nuts. They are also crunchy and make a good addition to salads, stews, rice dishes, and desserts. Chocolate covered macadamia nuts are often sold as a rich confection.

Buying and storing tips

Macadamia nuts are most often sold shelled—either raw or roasted. Look for well-shaped light-colored nuts. Those available in vacuum-packed jars or cans will stay fresher longer. Shelled nuts will keep well in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container for up to two months. Unshelled macadamias will keep for up to one year at room temperature.

Varieties

There are approximately six varieties of macadamia trees that grow in hot humid climates. The round beige nut has a thick hard shell, although some varieties have been developed in recent years with a softer shell. Australia and Hawaii are the leading producers of macadamia nuts.

Nutrition Highlights

Macadamia nuts, 10–12 kernels (1 oz.)
Calories: 204
Protein: 2.2g
Carbohydrate: 3.9g
Total Fat: 21.5g
Fiber: 2.4g
*Good source of: Thiamine (0.34mg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.

Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.

Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.

The information presented in the Food Guide is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of US–registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.