Pickled green walnuts

Pickled Green Walnuts - An Uncommon Delicacy

Total preparation time: 5-7 weeks (including waiting periods)
Working time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-15 servings (depending on usage)

Pickled green walnuts, a true delicacy that combines tradition with innovation, are an exotic condiment that can transform any ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. If you've ever wondered how to add a special touch to your dishes, this recipe is the answer you were looking for.

A Brief History of Pickled Green Walnuts

Pickled green walnuts are not a modern invention but a preparation with deep roots in culinary history. Used by ancient Persians 8,000 years ago, these walnuts have traversed centuries, even making their way into English cuisine, being mentioned by Charles Dickens. Unfortunately, over time, interest in this delicacy has waned, but today we can once again enjoy its unique flavors.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg green walnuts (unripe)
- 1 liter water
- 200 g salt (preferably non-iodized)
- Vinegar (preferably homemade, dark)
- Spices:
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 2-3 garlic cloves (halved)
- 1-2 red chili peppers (optional, for extra spice)
- A few cherry leaves (for flavor)

Step by Step: How to Prepare Pickled Green Walnuts

1. Harvesting and Preparing the Walnuts:
Harvest the green walnuts in the last week of June when they are at their maximum size. Avoid walnuts that have begun to dry or crack.

2. Cleaning the Walnuts:
Wash the walnuts well under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities.

3. Preparing the Walnuts:
Use a needle to poke each walnut in several places. This will help with brine absorption.

4. Preparing the Brine:
In a container, dissolve the salt in water to prepare the brine. Ensure that the salt is completely dissolved.

5. Maceration:
Place the walnuts in glass jars, then pour the brine over them. Put the lid on and gently shake the jar to ensure the walnuts are completely covered. Let the jar macerate for about 3 weeks, shaking it occasionally.

6. Aerating the Walnuts:
After 3 weeks, remove the walnuts from the brine and rinse them under cold running water. Place them on a tray and let them air dry for 2-3 days. This process will help develop a unique color and flavor.

7. Preparing the Final Jar:
After airing, place the walnuts back in the jar. Add the spices: coriander seeds, mustard, pepper, halved garlic, chili pepper, and cherry leaves. Then fill the jar with vinegar, ensuring the walnuts are completely covered.

8. Final Maceration:
Seal the jar and let it macerate for 2 weeks. For a more intense flavor, you can let the walnuts mature for 2 months.

Practical Tip

When serving pickled green walnuts, slice them thinly, as one walnut can season two servings of food. These walnuts are ideal for accompanying meat dishes, salads, or even adding a touch of freshness to sauces.

Nutritional Values and Calories

Although pickled green walnuts are used as condiments, they are low in calories, containing about 60 calories per 100 g. They are rich in antioxidants and can contribute to cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use larger green walnuts?
It is recommended to use unripe green walnuts, as larger ones may be too bitter and hard.

2. Can I substitute vinegar with another ingredient?
Vinegar is essential for the pickling process; however, you can experiment with different types of vinegar to achieve varied flavors.

3. How long can I store pickled walnuts?
If stored in a cool, dark place, pickled green walnuts can last for years.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

- Green Walnuts with Honey: Add a tablespoon of honey to the brine for a sweet-sour combination.
- Pickled Walnut Salad: Combine pickled green walnuts with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and an olive oil dressing.

Preparing pickled green walnuts may seem challenging, but with patience and passion, you will discover a versatile condiment full of flavors. Don't hesitate to share the recipe with friends and family; they will surely be impressed by this unique delicacy! Enjoy!