You’ve just made your delicious homemade almond milk (a real treat for your taste buds and your health!) and you’re left with that leftover pulp at the bottom of your nut milk bag? Don’t even think about throwing it away! In healthy and holistic cooking, the magic lies in the art of making the most of everything. That ‘s the very principle of zero waste: transforming what was once considered leftover into a delicious and nourishing creation.
Today , I ‘m taking you into my kitchen to prepare some delicious Crispy biscotti with mild spices cooked twice according to Italian tradition, but redesigned in a version that is kind to your body.
With the comforting aroma of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, combined with the slightly rustic and nutty flavor of barley flour these biscotti will quickly become your best allies to accompany your morning tea or coffee.
Why this recipe will be good for your body (and the planet)
1. The Zero Waste reflex: making the most of almond pulp (Okara)
Almond pulp, also called okara, is a real nutritional goldmine. Although the juice (milk) has extracted some of the nutrients, the pulp retains all of them… insoluble fibers, plant-based proteins, and valuable minerals. Incorporating it into your cookies adds a subtle softness while reducing food waste to zero.
2. The Treasures of Barley Flour
Often overlooked in favor of refined wheat flour, barley flour is a little marvel for the microbiota.
- Rich in beta-glucans: These soluble fibers help regulate cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar (no more 11am energy slumps!).
- Low glycemic index: It releases a slow and sustained energy, ideal for prolonged satiety.
- Mild and rustic flavor: Its subtle nutty flavor and slightly beveled texture pair wonderfully with autumn and winter recipes .
3. The Magic of Sweet Spices
The trio of cinnamon, cardamom and ginger isn’t just for filling your kitchen with a divine aroma:
- Cinnamon: Known for its antioxidant properties and its role in regulating blood sugar.
- Cardamom: A noble spice that aids digestion and provides a refreshing floral note.
- Ginger: A powerful natural anti-inflammatory that boosts vitality.
Crispy Biscotti with Almond Pulp & Spices
👥 Portions : about 15 biscotti | ⏱️ Preparation time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking time: 35 to 40 minutes (in two parts)
- 100 g almond pulp (well-pressed and drained after making your almond milk)
- 150 g barley flour
- 60 g whole cane sugar (such as Muscovado ou Rapadura for their caramel notes)
- 1 egg from a responsible source (or 1 “flax egg” for a vegan version)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch of fine sea salt
- Blend of mild spices:
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 1 pinch of nutmeg
- Optional (for extra crunch) : 40 g whole almonds or pumkin seeds.
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Prepare the dough
- Preheat your oven to 180 °C and cover a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the barley flour, whole cane sugar, yeast, salt and all the spices.
- Crumble the almond pulp over the bowl and mix it in with your fingertips to distribute it evenly.
- Add the egg and knead gently until you obtain a smooth dough that holds its shape in a ball.. (If the dough seems too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water or almond milk ).
2. The first cooking
- On your baking sheet, shape the dough into a slightly flattened log (approximately 20 cm long, 7 cm wide and 2 cm thick).
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The top should be firm and lightly golden.
- Key step: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the blood sausage cool slightly during 10 to 15 minutes. Do not skip this step, otherwise the barley flour may crumble when cutting!
3. The second bake for perfect crispness
- Lower the oven temperature to 150 °C.
- Using a sharp (serrated) bread knife, cut the sausage diagonally to obtain slices approximately 1 to 1.5 cm thick.
- Arrange the biscotti flat on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes turning them over halfway through cooking, until they are completely dry and crispy.
Let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will become even crispier as they cool!
My tasting tip
Store your biscotti in an airtight metal tin: they will retain their perfect crispness for 2 to 3 weeks. Enjoy them by gently dipping them in a large cup of Chai tea or your favorite golden milk.
Take care of yourself and enjoy your zero-waste tasting!
In Health,
Chantal