What Is Nut Butter? Everything You Need To Know About Different Types of Nut Butter
Whether it's creamy, crunchy, or smooth, nut butters have stormed breakfast tables, snack bowls, smoothie recipes, and even our social media feeds.
You might be simply spreading a little on toast, you might be adding a scoop into your favorite protein shake, or maybe you're even sneaking spoonfuls out of the jar (we won't judge) - no matter how you have nut butter, it's likely a staple in most kitchen counters today.
But what is nut butter? And is it actually good for you? Let's break down everything you need to know - including what is nut butter, varieties of nut butter, the health benefits of nut butter, and how to choose the best natural nut butter in India.
What Is Nut Butter?
Nut butter is simply a paste made from grinding nuts down to the point where it releases its natural oils and becomes spreadable. That's it. It's not interesting or special. It's just nuts.
Depending on the nut and how it is made, the nut butter's consistency can be creamy, chunky, or anywhere in between. You'll usually see peanut, almond, cashew, walnut, and others.
So, the next time someone asks you, "What is nut butter made out of?" you can confidently say: "Nuts. Just nuts."
What Makes Nut Butter Healthy and so Unique?
The buzz about healthy nut butter isn't just marketing - it's science-based. Nut butters are:
Loaded with good fats: Notably, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that promote heart health.
A protein-packed superfood: Perfect for vegetarians and fitness enthusiasts.
Rich in micronutrients: Magnesium, vitamin E, selenium, and fiber!
A plant-based energy source: Which is great for a midday energy gap or before a workout.
But there is a catch... not all nut butters are equal - there are products with added sugar, hydrogenated oils, and stuff you don't even need in your jar. This is why natural nut butter is the best option.
Different Types Of Nut Butter
Let’s be honest - there's a whole world beyond the realms of peanut butter. There is something for everyone, from classic to exotic types, and each has a whole vibe (and health influences).
Peanut Butter
The OG of nut butter. Packed with protein, peanut butter is great for everything - toast, smoothies, cookies, or even off the spoon.
Almond Butter
Slightly sweet and packed with nutrients, almond butter is a good source of vitamin E and magnesium. Not to mention, good for skin, bones, and your Instagram smoothie bowls.
Cashew Butter
Mild and creamy, cashew butter is also rich in iron, zinc, and rich fats. It truly shines in both sweet and savory dishes.
Hazelnut Butter
Do you love a chocolate-hazelnut spread? Well, even better for you is pure hazelnut butter. Naturally sweet and full of antioxidants.
Pistachio Butter
Pistachio butter is bright green and very flavorful. It is a solid source of protein, potassium, and heart-healthy fats. It’s a hidden gem.
Walnut Butter
An earthy, mildly bitter taste, walnut butter is a brain-boosting food with omega-3 fatty acids.
Brazil Nut Butter
Nut butter doesn't get more selenium-packed than this. If you're looking for immunity and thyroid support, Brazil nut butter works as long as you use it mindfully.
Macadamia Nut Butter
Buttery, rich, and low in carbohydrates - excellently decadent and perfect for keto dieters.
Pecan Nut Butter
Pecan butter is sweet and nutty and has antioxidants. It goes well with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pine Nut Butter
Pine nut butter is this buttery and slightly piney kind of nut butter, which is one of a kind! It packs vitamins and minerals for eye and heart health.
Health Benefits Of Nut Butter
When it comes to indulging without guilt, the benefits of nut butter are pretty convincing:
Helps with weight management: The fat and protein will keep you fuller for longer.
Supports heart health: That is due to the healthy fats and antioxidants.
Supports brain function: Especially walnut and almond butter.
Helps build muscles: Thanks to its protein.
Regulates blood sugar: Particularly when eating with complex carbohydrates, like whole grain bread.
Pro tip: Use natural nut butters without added sugar or palm oils if you want the benefits of nut butter.
Where Can I Buy Quality Nut Butter In India?
There are multiple channels to buy good quality nut butter in India:
Online Websites: like Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket, Wellcurve, and HealthKart have a host of nut butter brands available and deliver right to your door.
Retail Stores: In metro cities, there are many organic and health food stores with a variety of natural nut butters including local and artisanal businesses
Beeza: Is a homegrown option we offer pure, clean nut butters made in small batches, on the official Beeza website and any major e-commerce site.
How Should I Store Nut Butter?
Easy ways to keep your nut butter fresh and delicious:
Natural nut butter will separate (e.g., oil on top). It is completely normal, Just stir it ahead of use.
You'll want to keep it in a cool, dry place; your kitchen shelf is perfectly fine.
If you want a longer shelf life, keep it in the fridge; and it'll last for months.
Bonus: cold nut butter, means it's going to be thicker and more fudgy. Hell yes!
The Importance Of Choosing Natural Nut Butters
Not all nut butters are the same. Some products are fortified with nutrition, while others are overloaded with added sugar, hydrogenated oils, and preservatives - basically all the junk that your body doesn't even need.
That's why it's important to choose natural nut butter!
Here's why it counts:
Cleaner ingredients: Natural nuts butter typically contain just nuts, and maybe a bit of salt. No junk.
Healthier: No artificial additives equate to fewer empty calories and more actual nutrients.
Better taste: Natural nut butter has no added sugar or flavoring so the nutty taste comes through when you eat it.
Mindful consumption: Being aware of what is in your jar allows for mindful and thus satisfying eating.
So, next time you are out shopping, flip that jar around. Look for the shortest list of ingredients (the fewer ingredients the better). If it just says "Almonds" or "Peanuts" - then you have a winner.
Conclusion
Nut butter is not just a thing of the moment or a trend, but a delicious and nutritious part of your daily diet. From peanut butter to pistachio, almond butter to macadamia, each nut butter has its own flavor and nutrition benefits.
Now that you understand what nut butter is, what it’s made of, the different types of nut butter available, and why it is better to go natural you are ready to make better and healthier decisions.
Whether you are putting it on toast, blending it in your smoothie or eating it with a spoon (we don’t judge!), just ensure it’s natural, clean and made with real ingredients. You will feel better about putting that in your body and your taste buds will appreciate it as well.
