Oregon is often celebrated for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich agricultural heritage. Among its many agricultural treasures, one standout is the Oregon filbert, also known as the hazelnut. If you are a native Oregonian, this distinction is very important. Oregonians love their filberts. This small yet mighty nut has become a significant player in both the state’s economy and culinary scene.
The hazelnut has a long history in Oregon, with the first trees planted by settlers in the late 19th century. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the industry began to flourish. Today, Oregon accounts for nearly 99% of the hazelnut production in the United States, making it a powerhouse in the nut industry. And October happens to be hazelnut season.
According to Oregon Hazelnuts, “Oregon boasts an ideal climate for growing the world’s highest quality hazelnuts. It’s in this special corner of the world where temperate ocean, mountain and river climates meet with rich volcanic soils to create prime hazelnut-growing country.”
The Oregon hazelnut industry is vital for local farmers and the state’s economy. It generates millions of dollars annually and provides jobs in farming, processing, and distribution. With increasing global demand for hazelnuts, particularly in the confectionery and snack industries, Oregon’s hazelnut growers are well-positioned for future growth.
The harvesting process involves shaking the trees to dislodge the ripe nuts, which fall to the ground. The nuts are collected, cleaned, and dried to prepare for market. They can be sold whole, roasted, or ground into flour, and they are often used in a variety of products, including chocolate, spreads, and snacks.
The culinary versatility of hazelnuts makes them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. They can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. In desserts, hazelnuts pair wonderfully with chocolate, coffee, and fruit, appearing in everything from cakes and cookies to pastries and ice creams.
In savory applications, hazelnuts can add a delightful crunch to salads, roasted vegetables, and grain dishes. Additionally, hazelnut oil is a flavorful addition to dressings and marinades, imparting a rich, nutty flavor. Want some filbert recipes? Check out Oregon Hazelnuts for a variety of meals.
Where to Get Your Filbert On
Want some local hazelnut products? We’ve got you covered!
Filberts R Us
Filberts R Us is based out of Corvallis. You can get regular nuts, butterscotch dipped, chocolate-covered hazelnut caramel, chocolate orange dipped hazelnuts, and more! Shop online for your favorite flavors.
George Packing Co. Hazelnuts
George Packing Co. Hazelnuts is located in Newberg. It is family-owned and really is more of a source for large quantities of hazelnuts. If you’re a baker, a chocolatier, or simply a nut lover this is an excellent source for all your hazelnut needs, Their website even has a Filberts Fan Page!
Hazelnut Hill
Check out Hazelnut Hill. They are located in Junction City, Oregon. This family-run business offers a delightful array of hazelnut-based products that showcase the versatility of this beloved nut. They have a hazelnut sourdough starter, hazelnut butter, hazelnut pancake and waffle mix, and a variety of hazelnut candies and snacks.
Ken and June’s Hazelnuts
Or go to Ken and June’s Hazelnuts in St. Paul, Oregon. This family-operated business offers a wide variety of hazelnut products, making it an ideal destination for both personal enjoyment and gifting. They have hazelnuts, hazelnut oils, and hazelnut gift boxes. These are great options for your own enjoyment or to share a taste of Oregon with people out of state.
Nutrition-wise, hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. They also contain a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and copper. Additionally, hazelnuts are rich in antioxidants.
No matter if you call them hazelnuts or filberts, they are a part of this state and a part of our culture. Whether enjoyed on their own, incorporated into recipes, or used in innovative products, these nuts are a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. Take your kids to a hazelnut orchard, pick up some tasty treats, or learn more about this huge part of our agriculture landscape.
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.