Forktionary

Black Walnuts

Juglans nigra Nut

Black Walnuts Nut

At a Glance

  • Category Nut

The Forktionary Angle

"Black walnuts' unique tannic bitterness and intense aroma add an unparalleled depth that English walnuts can't replicate."

Definition

A native North American nut known for its robust, earthy, and distinctly pungent flavor, often used in baking and savory dishes.

Antioxidant Content High, especially in polyphenols.
Harvesting Season September - October
Shell Hardness Extremely hard, requiring special cracking tools.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Black Walnuts are:

Robust earthy pungent woody slightly bitter tannic

Chef’s Secret

Toast black walnuts lightly before use to deepen their flavor and reduce any residual bitterness, making them sing in both sweet and savory applications.

Best Substitutes

English Walnuts

less intense flavor
Ratio 1:1

Pecans

different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

Toasted Hazelnuts

milder
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Purchase shelled kernels to avoid the laborious cracking. Store in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent rancidity.

Culinary Pairings

Maple syrup bourbon chocolate apples blue cheese wild game coffee

Recipes Using Black Walnuts

Amish Banana Nut Cake With Penuche Frosting image
North American North American Northeastern United States 4 Hours Or Less

Amish Banana Nut Cake With Penuche Frosting

Indulge in this moist and decadent Amish Banana Nut Cake, a family favorite recipe! Perfectly spiced cake made with overripe bananas for ultimate flavor and moisture, topped with a rich and creamy penuche frosting. This recipe is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Make it a day or two ahead – the flavors deepen, and it's even more delicious! Prepare to be amazed by this classic.

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Banana Nut Bread Cake image 127
Fruit 3 Steps Or Less Course Breads

Banana Nut Bread Cake

This nostalgic Banana Nut Bread Cake recipe hails from a 1970s Boy Scout fundraising endeavor! Made with ultra-ripe bananas for maximum flavor, this recipe yields two delicious loaves, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy this perfectly moist and nutty cake – a taste of simpler times, updated for modern kitchens.

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Baked Apples A La Pierre image
Apples Dietary Fruit Low Sodium

Baked Apples A La Pierre

Relive the comforting warmth of childhood with our evolved Baked Apples A La Pierre recipe! This isn't your grandma's recipe, but a delicious twist perfected over years, incorporating the best techniques and flavors. Enjoy perfectly baked apples with a touch of magic – the measurements are approximate, allowing you to customize to your taste.

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