Black walnuts are a fascinating and flavorful nut that many people are curious about but unsure how to enjoy. With their rich, earthy taste and nutritional benefits, black walnuts can be a delightful addition to your diet once you know how to handle and eat them. This guide will walk you through everything from harvesting and cracking to creative ways to eat black walnuts, all in a friendly, easy-to-follow tone.
What Are Black Walnuts?
Black walnuts come from the Juglans nigra tree, native to North America. They have a much stronger and earthier flavor compared to the more common English walnuts. Their shells are notoriously tough, which makes harvesting and cracking them a bit of a challenge, but the effort is well worth it for the bold taste and nutritional perks.
How to Harvest and Prepare Black Walnuts
Harvesting
Black walnuts typically fall from the tree in autumn. When collecting them, it’s best to wear gloves because the outer green hulls can stain your hands. Remove these hulls as soon as possible-sometimes they are soft enough to peel off, but if they’re stubborn, letting the nuts sit for a few days helps soften the hulls.
Drying and Storing
After removing the hulls, rinse the nuts to clean off any dirt, then dry them in the sun for several days to prevent mold. Store dried black walnuts in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as mesh bags in a garage or shed. Properly stored, they can last for months.
Cracking the Nuts
Black walnut shells are very hard and require a special approach. You can use a hammer or a specialized black walnut cracker like the “Grandpa’s Goody Getter,” which is highly recommended for efficiency. When cracking by hand, gently tap the flat parts of the nut until it cracks without smashing it completely, then rotate and crack along the seams to get four quarters.
After cracking, rinse the nutmeats to remove any tiny shell particles that could damage your teeth, then dry them thoroughly.
How Do You Eat Black Walnuts? Delicious Ways to Enjoy Them
1. Raw Snacking
Once cracked and cleaned, you can enjoy black walnuts raw. Their rich, earthy flavor is intense and unique, making for a satisfying snack straight from the shell.
2. Baking
Black walnuts add a wonderful twist to baked goods. Chop them up and toss them into cookies, brownies, quick breads, or cakes. Their robust flavor and crunchy texture elevate simple recipes into something special.
3. Salads and Savory Dishes
Sprinkle chopped black walnuts on salads for a crunchy, nutty boost. They pair well with spinach, strawberries, feta cheese, or even grain salads like quinoa. In savory cooking, try them toasted in pesto or as a crust for chicken or fish. Their strong flavor complements garlic and bold cheeses like Parmesan or Gorgonzola.
4. Ice Cream Topping
For a decadent treat, sprinkle black walnuts over your favorite ice cream flavors. The contrast of creamy ice cream and crunchy, earthy nuts is irresistible and adds a gourmet touch to any dessert.
5. Trail Mix
Combine black walnuts with other nuts, dried fruits, and a bit of chocolate to create a flavorful and nutritious trail mix. It’s perfect for hiking or as a quick energy boost during the day.
6. Nut Butter
If you love nut butters, try making black walnut butter. Roast the nuts lightly, then blend them in a food processor until smooth. Spread it on toast, crackers, or use it as a dip for fresh fruit.
Nutritional Benefits of Black Walnuts
Black walnuts are more than just tasty-they’re packed with nutrition. A 1-ounce serving contains about 173 calories, 7 grams of protein, 16 grams of healthy fats, and 2 grams of fiber. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, iron, potassium, and phosphorus. Plus, they provide antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium, which help protect your cells.
Tips for Enjoying Black Walnuts
– Start small: Black walnuts have a stronger flavor than English walnuts, so begin with small amounts in recipes to avoid overpowering dishes.
– Toast for flavor: Lightly toasting black walnuts brings out their aroma and enhances their taste.
– Store properly: Keep shelled black walnuts in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
– Be patient: Cracking black walnuts can be tricky at first, but with practice and the right tools, it becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Black walnuts are a unique, flavorful nut that can add depth and nutrition to your meals. Whether you enjoy them raw, baked into treats, or sprinkled on salads and ice cream, learning how to eat black walnuts opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
Enjoy the rich taste and health benefits of black walnuts by incorporating them into your diet today!