Unlocking the Savoury Potential of Almond Butter with Roasted Pumpkin

When you hear "almond butter," what immediately comes to mind? A smoothie bowl topping? A spread for toast with banana slices? Perhaps a dollop in your morning oatmeal? For many, almond butter is firmly entrenched in the realm of sweet sensations. And while it undeniably excels there, we at 99th Monkey are here to challenge that notion and introduce you to an incredible flavour bomb that will revolutionise your perception of this creamy, nutritious spread: almond butter on roasted pumpkin.

It's time to pull almond butter out of the exclusive "sweet" club and celebrate its remarkable versatility, particularly when it comes to savoury applications. This is a pairing that, frankly, isn't talked about enough, and it's a culinary injustice we intend to rectify. The subtle sweetness and rich, nutty depth of almond butter are a match made in heaven for the earthy, slightly sweet notes of roasted vegetables, especially pumpkin and its equally delightful cousin, sweet potato.

 

Why Almond Butter and Savoury is a Match Made in Culinary Heaven

 

Let's break down the magic. The conventional wisdom often pigeonholes nut butters, relegating peanut butter to satay sauces and almond butter to desserts. But here's the secret: almond butter possesses a nuanced flavour profile that allows it to seamlessly integrate into savoury dishes, adding a layer of richness, creaminess, and umami that elevates humble ingredients to gourmet status. It's less assertive than peanut butter, making it a more adaptable player in the savoury arena. Its inherent creaminess also acts as a fantastic binder and emulsifier, adding luxurious texture without overpowering other flavours.

 

Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, and Almond Butter

 

The moment that smooth, rich almond butter meets the warm, slightly sweet surface of roasted pumpkin, something truly extraordinary happens. The nuttiness of the almond butter is amplified by the roasting process of the pumpkin, while the inherent sweetness of the pumpkin is beautifully complemented by the subtle, earthy undertones of the almonds. It’s a symphony of flavours, a truly unexpected yet utterly harmonious pairing that will leave you wondering where this combination has been all your life.

And it’s not just pumpkin! Sweet potato, with its denser texture and more pronounced sweetness, also sings in harmony with almond butter. Whether it's the classic orange-fleshed variety or the purple or white sweet potatoes, the outcome is equally delightful.

 

How to Unleash This Flavour Bomb in Your Kitchen

 

The beauty of this pairing lies not only in its exquisite taste but also in its incredible simplicity and versatility. You don't need a complicated recipe or a long list of ingredients to experience this culinary revelation.

1. The Simplest Pleasure: Roast and Spread This is the gateway to your savoury almond butter journey.

• Preheat your oven to 200°C.

• Cut your pumpkin or sweet potato into chunks or wedges. You can leave the skin on for extra fibre and rustic appeal, or peel it if you prefer.

• Toss with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder for an extra savoury kick, but it's entirely optional.

• Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelised.

• Once out of the oven, simply spread a generous dollop (or two) of 99th Monkey Almond Butter directly onto the warm roasted pieces. The warmth of the vegetables will slightly melt the almond butter, allowing it to coat every crevice with its creamy goodness.

2. The Savoury Sandwich Upgrade Move over, hummus! Almond butter is ready to take its place in your savoury sandwiches and wraps.

• Prepare your roasted pumpkin or sweet potato as above.

• Take your favourite bread (sourdough works wonderfully here) or a whole-wheat wrap.

• Spread a layer of 99th Monkey Almond Butter on one side.

• Layer with the roasted pumpkin or sweet potato.

• Add some fresh greens like rocket or spinach, perhaps a slice of avocado, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

• This creates a surprisingly satisfying and nutrient-dense sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

3. The Deconstructed Bowl Delight For a heartier, more substantial meal, turn this dynamic duo into a nourishing bowl.

• Start with a base of grains like quinoa, brown rice, or noodles.

• Add your roasted pumpkin or sweet potato pieces.

• Introduce some other savoury elements: sautéed kale, roasted chickpeas for crunch, or even some grilled halloumi.

• Now generously drizzle 99th Monkey Almond Butter over the entire bowl. You can thin it out slightly with a tiny bit of warm water or lemon juice if you prefer a pourable sauce consistency, but it's equally delicious straight from the jar.

• A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and perhaps some chilli flakes, will finish it off beautifully.

 

The Health Benefits: More Than Just Delicious

 

Beyond its incredible taste and versatility, pairing almond butter with roasted pumpkin or sweet potato offers a powerhouse of nutritional benefits:

• Heart Health: Almond butter is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Protein Power: As a plant-based source of protein, almond butter contributes to satiety, muscle repair, and sustained energy throughout the day.

• Fibre Rich: Both almond butter and pumpkin/sweet potato are excellent sources of dietary fibre. Fibre is crucial for digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and keeping you feeling full longer.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Almonds are packed with Vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant), magnesium (important for muscle and nerve function), and potassium. Pumpkin and sweet potato bring a generous dose of Vitamin A (beta-carotene), essential for vision and immune function, as well as Vitamin C and more potassium.

• Antioxidant Boost: The combination of Vitamin E from almonds and beta-carotene from pumpkin/sweet potato provides a strong antioxidant defence, helping to protect your cells from damage.

• Sustainable Energy: The healthy fats, protein, and complex carbohydrates in this pairing provide a steady release of energy, preventing those dreaded blood sugar spikes and crashes.

 

Embrace the Savoury Revolution

 

It's time to broaden our culinary horizons and give almond butter the savoury spotlight it deserves. The combination with roasted pumpkin or sweet potato is just the beginning. Think about incorporating 99th Monkey Almond Butter into dressings, marinades, or even as a creamy base for savoury tarts. Once you start experimenting, you'll discover a whole new world of flavour.

So, the next time you're looking for an easy, nutritious, and incredibly delicious way to elevate your meal, reach for a trusty pumpkin or sweet potato, give it a good roast, and then generously slather it with the creamy goodness of 99th Monkey Almond Butter. Prepare for a flavour revelation that will change the way you think about nut butters forever. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you.