This wholesome, vegetarian-style almond pâté is a rustic and satisfying spread with a touch of sophistication. Finely ground almonds blend with herbs, tamari, and lemon for a creamy, nutty flavor balanced by fresh parsley and subtle spice. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or sandwich filling, it’s especially lovely paired with homemade rustic crackers, crisp vegetables, or fresh bread. This nourishing plant-based pâté also makes a thoughtful edible gift for vegetarian or vegan friends.
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup onion, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon savory
1/2 teaspoon fine herbs
1 cup raw almonds, finely ground
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons bread crumbs, toasted in the oven
2 tablespoons parsley, freshly minced
1 teaspoon tamari
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper
2 – 4 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise or sour cream
Lemon slices
METHOD:
In a skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add the onions, cumin, savory, and fine herbs. Cook gently until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
Add ground almonds, toasted bread crumbs, parsley, tamari, and garlic to the onion mixture. Mix with your hands or a spoon until well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Gradually stir in mayonnaise or sour cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together.
Shape into a log or press into a serving dish. Garnish with overlapping slices of lemon. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Spread on crackers, bread, or use as a filling for sandwiches. Also pairs well with celery sticks or other fresh vegetables.
YIELD: Makes 8 servings
GIFT IDEAS:
Rustic Snack Set: Package a small crock or jar of almond pâté with a bundle of homemade whole-grain crackers tied with twine.
Vegan Gift Basket: Pair with marinated olives, spiced nuts, and a small loaf of artisan bread for a plant-based picnic gift.
Holiday Entertaining Gift: Include a jar of pâté with a bottle of local white wine or sparkling cider and a few sprigs of fresh herbs.
Farmhouse Presentation: Spoon pâté into a glass jar, top with a thin layer of olive oil, seal, and tie on a handwritten tag with serving suggestions.
SOURCE: Recipe from Tassajara Cooking by Espe Brown
