Denis: “We began growing almonds in 2004 when the water deregulations started. As a result, we diversified from wheat and rice growing into almonds. The almonds flower in August and are harvested in February. It’s a big task as there is lots of machinery involved; shakers, sweepers, tractors and bins to collect the almonds. We grow about eight varieties of almonds now, and the Nonpareil, which is an American variety, is still the favourite.”
Annette: “I have always made almond milk at home with my Thermomix. When our daughter was travelling overseas in Italy she noticed that everyone was drinking almond milk and mentioned we should try making it at home where we have access to the freshest almonds. We activate them, or soak them to make them softer, and then we work with them from there. We make all types of things using our almond milk from banana bread to pancakes to protein balls. I cook a lot with almond milk: stir-fries, curries, a white bechamel sauce for lasagne — we make everything!”
