...The almond tree was first cultivated in the Middle East and has since become a crop grown in climates similar to the Mediterranean, around the world. The almond is covered by a hard shell that must be removed before eating. The almond is between 3.5 and 6 centimeter and in an oblong shape with a pointed top. It's skin is brown and ridged. It's meat is white with a dense hardness. It has a mild flavor that is occasionally bitter. Almonds are used in many dishes, from desserts to savory dishes, or eaten as is, coated in salt, sugar, chocolate or any other number of ingredients.