Apricot Kernals

Apricot Kernals

Ingredient Name:  Sweet-bitter Apricot Kernals (also known as bitter almonds or apricot almonds)

 
Traditional Chinese Name: 南北杏 (nán běi xìng)
 
This ingredient is also a must have in your soup pantry.  It’s used in a variety of soups that help relieve heatiness and are good for coughs.  You can also use this in a few sweet soups, so it makes the apricot kernal a versitile seed indeed!
 
What is this?
  • The apricot kernal is literally the seed kernal of the apricot fruit
  • They can be very strong tasting and bitter
  • The Chinese name reflects the tastes of the apricot kernal: Sweet (南) -bitter (北) Apricot Kernals (杏)
  • They are durable goods and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for at least 12-18 months

How do I prepare it?

  • Wash before usage

Where can I buy this?

  • In Asian supermarkets, you can purchase them prepackaged
  • You can also purchase them from Chinese speciality stores (pharmacies) in bulk by weight

What is the cost?

  • Apricot kernals packages cost around $2.00 – $3.00 CAD / 8 oz package

Any benefits?

  • Apricot kernals are known to target and benefit the lungs
  • They are best used as a cough remedy

Any precautions?

  • Excess consumption may produce symptoms of cyanide poisoning such as nausea, fever, rash, headaches, insomnia, thirst, weakness, lethargy and various aches in pains

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