Nut | Gluten Free Vegan Vegetarian Low Carb

Black Walnuts

Juglans nigra Allergens: Tree Nuts
Black Walnuts

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Juglandaceae
  • Primary Cuisine North American
  • Seasonality Late Summer - Fall (harvest), Year-Round (shelled)
  • Source Tree nuts (Juglans nigra tree)

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

An aromatic, intensely flavored nut from the black walnut tree, native to North America, known for its distinct, earthy, pungent taste.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Pungent, Bitter, Woody, Astringent
TextureCrunchy, Crumbly, Oily
AromaWoody, Earthy, Resinous, Pungent
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Antioxidant Content

High, especially in polyphenols.

Harvesting Season

September - October

Shell Hardness

Extremely hard, requiring special cracking tools.

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g
Calories619 kcal
Total Fat59 g
Saturated Fat3.8 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein24 g
Total Carbohydrate11.5 g
Dietary Fiber6.7 g
Total Sugars2.9 g
Calcium100 mg
Iron3.1 mg
Potassium520 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting black walnuts briefly in a dry pan enhances their nutty aroma and mellows their bitterness. Combine with a touch of maple for optimal flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

English Walnuts

1:1

Milder flavor, but similar texture and omega-3 profile. Roast to enhance flavor.

Pecans

1:1

Softer, sweeter, and buttery, good for baking where texture is key.

Hazelnuts

1:1

Rich, slightly sweet, and nutty, works well in desserts and savory dishes.

Toasted Sunflower Seeds

1:1

Nut-free option for crunch and mild nutty flavor, lacks the complexity.

Buying Guide

Purchase shelled black walnuts from reputable suppliers to ensure freshness and reduce bitterness.

Flavor Pairings

Chocolate coffee maple syrup blue cheese strong game meats bourbon stout beer.

Recipes Using Black Walnuts

Amish Banana Nut Cake With Penuche Frosting image 125
Tropical Fruit Main Ingredient Dinner Party Cakes

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 201
Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less For Large Groups Main Ingredient

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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