why don't you have a rice cooker GIGArfool
Actually, almonds in pesto isn't that uncommon- I've had it in Italy as well as a few times here in the US. Either blanch or toast them first, and use a bit less in weight than you would use of pine nuts. Oh, and I would chop the almonds fine first in the food processor then add your other ingredients.
bacon fat is better for you than any other kind of fat