Macadamia nut history
Macadamia nuts are closely associated with Hawaii, and for good reason. Hawaii is the largest exporter of macadamia nuts, providing ninety-five percent of the world's crop. Yet this buttery-tasting nut is native to Australia and comes from a tree that was originally grown for ornamental purposes. The tree was introduced to Hawaii in 1880 where it thrived in the tropical environment. California now also produces a sizable macadamia nut crop.The macadamia nut is encased in an extremely hard shell, difficult to crack. This is the main reason it took so long for the inner nutmeat to be discovered as a tasty food source. The tree was named for chemist John MacAdam by his friend and colleague, Baron Ferdinand von Mueller, Director of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Australia. MacAdams died shipboard while en route to taste the nut named for him.
More About Macadamia Nuts:
• Macadamia Nut Cooking Tips
• Macadamia Nut Selection and Storage
• Macadamia Nut Equivalents
• Macadamia Nut History
• Macadamia Nuts and Health
• Macadamia Nuts Recipes
Photo © 2006 Peggy Trowbridge, licensed to About.com, Inc.
