Preparing wild walnuts, particularly black walnuts, requires a specific process to soften the tough outer shell and extract the nutmeat. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Soaking the Walnuts
- Soak the walnuts in water: Place the wild walnuts in a large container and cover them with water.
- Soaking Duration: Let them soak for one to two hours. Soaking helps to soften the tough outer shell, making it easier to crack.
Step 2: Moist Storage
- Remove and Store: After soaking, remove the walnuts from the water.
- Airtight Container: Place the soaked walnuts in an airtight container. This keeps them moist and further softens the shell overnight.
Step 3: Cracking the Walnuts
- Crack the Shells: The next day, use a hammer, nutcracker, or vise to crack the softened shells. Be careful to avoid crushing the nutmeat inside.
- Extraction: Remove the nutmeats from the cracked shells. This part can be tedious due to the compartments inside the shell.
Tips for Success
- Wear Gloves: Black walnuts can stain your hands, so wearing gloves is recommended.
- Work Area: Protect your work surface with newspaper or a drop cloth.
- Nut Storage: Store the extracted nutmeats in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness.
By following these steps, you can successfully prepare wild walnuts for eating or cooking. Remember that the process may be time-consuming, but the unique flavor of wild walnuts is worth the effort.
