The Secret to Boiling Walnuts and How to Make Delicious Walnut Sausages
In the world of culinary traditions, certain techniques have stood the test of time, passed down from one generation to the next. One such time-honored method is the practice of boiling whole walnuts in their shells. This simple yet effective method, often whispered from wise grandmothers, unlocks the full potential of the walnut’s flavor and texture. If you haven’t tried boiling walnuts, now is the perfect time to discover this secret trick.
The Magic of Boiling Whole Walnuts
Boiling whole walnuts in their shells might sound unconventional, but it offers a surprising number of benefits. The process softens the tough walnut shells, making them much easier to crack open. Additionally, it subtly enhances the flavor and tenderness of the walnut meat inside, creating a richer, more enjoyable taste.
How to Boil Whole Walnuts:
- Prepare the Walnuts:
- Choose high-quality whole walnuts with their shells intact. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Boil the Walnuts:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Add the whole walnuts to the boiling water and allow them to boil for approximately 5 minutes.
- Cool and Crack:
- After boiling, carefully drain the walnuts and allow them to cool slightly. The shells will now be softened, making it easier to crack them open without shattering the kernels inside.
- Enjoy:
- You can now easily remove the walnut meat, which will have absorbed a slightly richer flavor thanks to the boiling process.
Boiling walnuts not only simplifies the task of shelling them but also elevates the taste, making them ideal for cooking, baking, or snacking. But the versatility of walnuts doesn’t stop there. Once boiled, walnuts can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. One such traditional recipe is Homemade Walnut Sausages, a unique and delightful treat that has been loved for centuries.
Homemade Walnut Sausages – A Traditional Delight
Once you’ve boiled and cracked your walnuts, you can use them in this wonderful recipe for homemade walnut sausages. This traditional snack combines walnuts with a grape-based sauce, creating a chewy, flavorful treat perfect for sharing with family or as a healthy snack during the colder months.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram of whole walnuts (boiled and cracked)
- 2 kilograms of grapes (black, white, or a mix of both)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of starch
- 1 glass (200 ml) of milk
Instructions:
- String the Walnuts:
- Using a needle and thread, string the boiled and cracked walnut halves together in a line. Ensure they are threaded in the same direction to form a uniform string of walnuts. You can adjust the length depending on your preference.
- Make the Grape Juice:
- Crush the grapes using a mixer and strain the juice through a fine sieve to remove any pulp. You should end up with about 1.5 liters of fresh grape juice.
- Pour the grape juice into a pot and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, removing any foam that forms on the surface.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, starch, and milk. Stir until you have a smooth mixture.
- Slowly add 3-4 scoops of the boiling grape juice into the flour mixture while stirring continuously.
- Once mixed, pour this back into the pot with the rest of the grape juice and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Coat the Walnuts:
- Dip the strung walnuts into the thickened grape sauce, ensuring they are fully coated. Hang the walnut strings in a cool, dry place to allow the sauce to set.
- After about an hour, you can dip them again for a thicker coating.
- Dry the Walnut Sausages:
- Allow the coated walnuts to dry completely, which may take 5-6 days depending on the temperature and humidity. Once dried, the walnut sausages will have a sweet, chewy texture and a rich flavor from the grape juice and walnuts.
A Culinary Tradition Worth Sharing
This method of boiling and preparing walnuts in creative ways has been passed down through generations, and for good reason. The simple act of boiling walnuts enhances their flavor and texture, making them easier to crack and even more enjoyable to eat. Whether you’re using them in recipes like Homemade Walnut Sausages or simply enjoying them on their own, boiled walnuts are a versatile and delicious addition to your kitchen.
Try this recipe and share the joy of traditional walnut-based treats with your loved ones. These walnut sausages are perfect for snacking, gifting, or savoring during the colder months. They’re not just a nostalgic treat—they’re a reminder of the simple pleasures of homemade food, crafted with love and care.
