Nut Structures and Qualities

The bulk of most nuts consists of the embryo’s swollen storage leaves, or cotyledons, but coconuts and pine nuts are monolithic masses of endosperm, and the Brazil nut is a swollen embryonic stem. Unlike most grains and legumes, nuts are delicious when eaten in their dry, nutrient-concentrated state, somewhat crisped and browned by a quick roasting. Their weak cell walls make them tender, their low starch content prevents them from seeming floury, and their oil gives them a mouthwatering moistness.