The hazelnut: A hearty all-rounder in modern cuisine

The hazelnut, known for its distinctive nutty-sweet taste, has long been a star in desserts and sweet snacks. But did you know that it also makes for exciting creations in savory cuisine? With its delicate aroma, it gives both Asian-inspired and American dishes a special touch. Let yourself be inspired by the versatility of the hazelnut and discover two creative recipes in which the nut takes center stage.
- The hazelnut: a culinary all-rounder
Hazelnuts are more than just delicious – they are real nutritional packages. With a high content of vitamin E, magnesium and healthy unsaturated fatty acids, they promote health and fit perfectly into modern nutritional trends. At the same time, their crunchy texture is ideal for enhancing dishes – whether as a topping, in sauces or as a breading.
- Asian inspired: hazelnut sesame chicken
Ingredients (for 2 people):
• 2 chicken breast fillets
• 100 g hazelnuts (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (mixed white and black)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp ginger (grated)
• 1 garlic clove (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Spring onions and lime wedges for garnish
Preparation:
1. Mix soy sauce, honey, ginger and garlic in a bowl. Marinate the chicken breast fillets in the mixture and let them sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix the chopped hazelnuts and sesame seeds in a bowl.
3. Drain the marinated chicken fillets, first dip them in the cornstarch, then in the egg and finally in the hazelnut-sesame mixture.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan and fry the fillets over medium heat until golden brown on both sides until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side).
5. Garnish with spring onions and lime wedges and serve with rice or steamed vegetables.
Why it’s special: The combination of the crunchy hazelnut crust and the spicy, Asian flavors makes this dish a real highlight.
- American delight: hazelnut BBQ burger with spicy coleslaw
Ingredients (for 2 burgers):
• 250 g ground beef
• 50 g hazelnuts (finely chopped)
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
• 2 burger buns
• 2 slices of cheddar
• 1 handful of arugula
For the coleslaw:
• 150 g white cabbage (finely chopped)
• 1 carrot (grated)
• 1 tbsp hazelnut butter
• 2 tbsp yogurt
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper
Preparation:
1. For the coleslaw: Mix the hazelnut butter, yogurt and apple cider vinegar into a dressing. Season with salt and pepper and mix in the cabbage and carrots. Set aside.
2. For the burgers: Mix the ground beef, chopped hazelnuts, egg, breadcrumbs and BBQ sauce well in a bowl. Form two burger patties.
3. Fry the patties in a pan or on the grill over medium heat on both sides until cooked through (about 4 minutes per side). In the last few minutes, place the cheddar on the patties and let it melt.
4. Toast the burger buns briefly. Brush with BBQ sauce, then top with arugula, patties and coleslaw. Fold the bun halves together and serve immediately.
Why it’s special: The hazelnuts in the patty give the burger an exceptional texture and a nutty kick, while the coleslaw with hazelnut butter brings the perfect balance of freshness and spice.
- Conclusion: Rediscover the hazelnut
Whether as a crispy breading in Asian-inspired chicken or as a spicy addition to an American BBQ burger – the hazelnut shows how versatile it is. With its unique taste and healthy properties, it brings a breath of fresh air to savory dishes. Try these recipes and get culinary inspiration from the queen of nuts!
Interested in trying out these delicious recipes? You can find our freshly roasted hazelnuts in the best quality in our shop: https://shop.burghardt-delicious.com/collections/haselnusse