Ahhh, walnuts 🌰—rich, earthy, and quietly powerful. Let’s give them their due.
🌰 Walnut Basics
- Flavor: slightly bitter, nutty, deep
- Texture: crunchy raw, buttery when toasted
- Types: English (most common), Black walnuts (stronger, bolder)
🔥 Best Ways to Use Walnuts
- Baking: cakes, brownies, banana bread, apple or carrot cake
- Savory: pesto, salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls
- Snacks: toasted with honey & salt, spiced walnuts
- Sauces: walnut sauce (like muhammara or walnut pesto)
🍳 How to Toast Walnuts (Game Changer)
Oven:
- 350°F / 175°C for 8–10 minutes, stir once
Stovetop:
- Dry skillet over medium heat, stir constantly 3–5 minutes
👉 You’ll smell them when they’re ready—don’t walk away.
🧠 Nutrition Highlights
- High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Good source of protein, fiber, antioxidants
- Great for heart & brain health
🌿 Flavor Pairings
- Apples, pears, figs
- Honey, maple, caramel
- Blue cheese, goat cheese
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla
If you want, I can give you a quick walnut dessert, savory walnut sauce, or a how-to for candying walnuts that’s dangerously snackable 😌
