In the world of culinary traditions, there is a special technique that older generations have been using for years to enhance the flavor of walnuts. It involves boiling the whole walnuts in their shells, a simple and effective method that unlocks their full potential. If you haven’t tried boiling walnuts yet, now is the time to discover this secret trick that has been passed down from wise grandmothers.

Boiling whole walnuts in their shells may seem unconventional, but it actually offers surprising benefits. Not only does it soften the tough shells, making them easier to crack open, but it also enhances the flavor and tenderness of the walnut meat inside. This creates a richer and more enjoyable taste that you won’t want to miss out on.

How to Boil Whole Walnuts:

Prepare the Walnuts:

• Start by choosing high-quality walnuts with intact shells. Give them a quick rinse 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 let them simmer for approximately 5 minutes.

Cool and Crack:

• Once boiled, 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:

• Now you can 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 traditional favorite is homemade walnut sausages.

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 and flavorful treat perfect for sharing with family or enjoying 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. Make sure they are all facing the same direction to create a uniform string of walnuts. Adjust the length according to 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 approximately 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, skimming off 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 it 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 each walnut is fully coated. Hang the walnut strings in a cool and dry place to allow the sauce to set.
• After approximately 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.

Boiling walnuts and using them in creative ways has been a treasured tradition passed down through generations, and for good reason. The simple act of boiling walnuts not only enhances their flavor and texture but also makes 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.