Almond trees are a characteristic feature of Mallorca's rural landscape and they are truly spectacular on blossoming at the end of January, when their delicately scented white or pink flowers cover the island's valleys and fields.
Indeed, almost 50% of the fruit trees grown on the island are almonds, which prefer calcareous soils with little rain and lots of sunlight. Although these factors mean a low yield, they make the almonds rich in healthy fats as well as highly unctuous and intensely aromatic.
Sold raw or toasted, with or without skins, the almonds of Mallorca are protected by an IGP that ensures their origin. They form an essential ingredient of such delicious desserts as the cake called Gató mallorquí, ice cream, and turrón nougat, and they also go into many picada seasonings and sauces.
