How to Harvest and Prepare Fresh Walnuts Directly from a Tree- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Prepare Walnuts from a Tree

Walnuts are not only a delicious nut but also a valuable source of nutrients. They are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. If you have a walnut tree in your garden, you can easily harvest and prepare your own walnuts. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to prepare walnuts from a tree, from harvesting to enjoying them.

Harvesting Walnuts

The first step in preparing walnuts from a tree is to harvest them. Walnuts are typically ready for harvest in the fall, usually between September and November. To harvest walnuts, follow these steps:

1. Look for ripe walnuts: Ripe walnuts have a brown hull and a green husk. They should also be heavy for their size.
2. Gather the walnuts: Use a ladder or a sturdy chair to reach the walnuts on the tree. Gently shake the branches to dislodge the walnuts or use a pole pruner to cut the branches with walnuts from the tree.
3. Collect the walnuts: Place a bucket or a tarp under the tree to catch the falling walnuts. Be sure to collect all the walnuts, as some may fall before you reach them.

Removing the Husk

Once you have harvested the walnuts, the next step is to remove the husk. The husk is the green outer layer of the walnut and can be quite stubborn. Here’s how to remove it:

1. Place the walnuts in a bucket of water: Fill a bucket with water and submerge the walnuts. Let them soak for a few hours or overnight.
2. Remove the husk: After soaking, the husk should be easier to remove. Simply peel it off by hand or use a knife to help with the process.
3. Clean the walnuts: Once the husk is removed, rinse the walnuts under cold water to remove any remaining husk pieces or dirt.

Shelling the Walnuts

Now that the husk is removed, it’s time to shell the walnuts. This can be a bit challenging, as walnuts have a hard shell. Here’s how to shell walnuts:

1. Use a nutcracker: Place the walnut on a flat surface and crack it open with a nutcracker. Be sure to hold the nutcracker securely to avoid injury.
2. Remove the kernel: Once the shell is cracked, use your fingers or a knife to remove the kernel from the shell. The kernel is the edible part of the walnut.

Storing Walnuts

After shelling the walnuts, you can store them for future use. Here are some tips for storing walnuts:

1. Keep them cool: Store walnuts in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or refrigerator. Avoid storing them in airtight containers, as this can cause them to become rancid.
2. Use within a month: Fresh walnuts can be stored for up to a month in the refrigerator. After that, they may start to lose their flavor and texture.

Enjoying Your Home-Grown Walnuts

Now that you have prepared your walnuts from a tree, it’s time to enjoy them. Walnuts can be added to a variety of dishes, such as salads, desserts, and baked goods. They can also be eaten raw as a healthy snack. With your own home-grown walnuts, you can enjoy the freshest and most nutritious walnuts possible. Happy harvesting!