Are Black Walnuts Edible? How To Eat Black Walnuts

For centuries, walnuts have been valued for their rich nutritional content, especially protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Recently, many people have discovered black walnuts and are curious about “are black walnuts edible” and how to store them. This article answers those questions in detail!

Are Black Walnuts Edible?

The black walnut (scientific name: Juglans nigra) is a native North American tree, commonly found in the United States and part of the Juglandaceae family. While traditionally harvested for firewood, black walnuts have gained popularity as an edible nut, offering similar health benefits to standard walnuts.

The black walnut was first identified in 1629 in Northeastern America. It grows as a broad-leaf tree, reaching up to 130 feet (40 meters) in height with dark, ridged bark. Its nut is larger than the common walnut, with a hairy outer husk.

The leaves are oval, tapering at the tip, with serrated edges and soft hairs on the underside. Black walnuts ripen in the fall, and while their outer hull starts green with some brown, it turns fully brown as they mature.

Rich in essential nutrients such as protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamin E, iron, and folic acid, black walnuts provide numerous health benefits, including:

• Support blood sugar stabilization
• Reduced risk of blood clotting
• Immune system support
• May regulate blood pressure
• Antioxidant and antibacterial properties
• Satiety benefits for weight management
• Improved gut health

How To Eat Black Walnuts

The edible part of black walnuts is located deep inside, surrounded by a hard shell that can be challenging to crack. The simplest way to eat black walnuts is to dry them thoroughly, making it easier to break open the shell. Once cracked, the nut inside has a mildly sweet taste and a light, pleasant aroma.

Another popular method is to roast or bake the walnuts. To do this, place the walnuts in a pan, add a pinch of salt, and roast until the shells are charred and fragrant. After cooling, break them open, extract the nut, and enjoy. You can eat them directly or add them to dishes like vegetable salads, pasta with tomato sauce, or even use them to make nut milk. Simply blend the nut pieces with milk or water, and enjoy the rich, creamy beverage each morning.

In addition, some supplement manufacturers recognize the health benefits of black walnuts and offer them as extracts in health products. You may want to explore reputable brands and consult a healthcare professional before using them.

Beside the fruit, black walnut leaves, although not directly editable, are still used as an ingredient in functional food products. Black walnut leaves contain an abundant source of juglone, a powerful antioxidant that maintains a clean and healthy intestinal environment, while also supporting immune function.

When Are Black Walnuts Ripe?

Only consume black walnuts once they’re fully ripe. Here’s how to identify a ripe walnut:

• The ideal harvest time is typically late August to early October.
• The outer hull should be a dark green color, soft to the touch, and slightly elastic.
• The nut inside should have a light color with a mild aroma.
• Ripe nuts may fall from the tree when you gently shake the branches.
• The shell should appear smooth and firm, without cracks.

Black Walnuts Harvesting Tips

Choose Appropriate Clothing And Wear Gloves

The juglone in black walnuts can irritate the skin and stain fingertips black. Before harvesting, wear protective clothing that covers most of your body (like long-sleeved shirts and pants), along with gloves, a hat, and sunglasses.

Gather Black Walnuts Promptly

Once you see the walnuts ripening, it’s best to harvest them promptly. Overripe walnuts can crack open, losing flavor and potentially developing compounds that may cause digestive discomfort, like bloating.

Remove The Husk Right Away

After harvesting, remove the walnut husks immediately to prevent stains from seeping into the nut, which could alter both its color and taste. To clean off the husk, remove the outer green layer and soak the nuts in clean water until the nut kernel’s white flesh is visible.

Let The Nuts Cure

Once husks are removed, sort the nuts by placing them in water. Only keep the nuts that sink, as these are fresh and edible, while those that float are likely undeveloped. Dry the nuts thoroughly in sunlight to eliminate any harmful bacteria before storing.

Store Black Walnuts In The Fridge Or Freezer

For nuts not used immediately, store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Black walnuts can be kept in the fridge for up to one year and in the freezer for up to two years or more. Store them in airtight containers or zip-lock bags to keep air out, and avoid placing them near strong-smelling foods like onions or raw meats.

Conclusion

We hope this article has answered your question, “Are black walnuts edible?” Overall, both black walnuts and regular walnuts offer significant health benefits when consumed properly and in appropriate daily amounts. In addition to eating fresh nuts directly, you can also incorporate essential nutrients from these nuts through supplements, provided they come in suitable dosages from trusted and reputable brands.