Blanch almonds. Dry in oven, mash with mortar and pestle, or pulverize in blender or food processor or grinder. Place sugar, egg whites, and vanilla in bowl; add the almonds. Blend, using your fingers, into a thick dough or mass. Shape into narrow "fingers," and place on a buttered baking sheet. Bake in preheated 150ºC . oven for about 20 min. ----