An American Tradition – Wild Black Walnuts
Category Uncategorized | Posted October 7, 2016
October is National Black Walnut Month in celebration of the annual harvest and the array of foods enhanced by the rich, bold flavor – from ice cream and baked goods to savory fare and chef-inspired creations.
The American Black Walnut is native to 32 states and finds its home in the Ozarks as the official tree nut of Missouri. It is one of the most valuable natural forest trees in the United States with a variety of uses. The flavorful nuts are harvested as a popular food. The wood is used in crafting furniture and gun stocks. The husks can be used to make dyes, and the shells – the hardest of any tree nut in the world – are used for a broad range of industrial applications. As a result, the Black Walnut is one of the most fully utilized trees in America.
The majority of the crop is wild, hand-foraged each fall by locals across the heartland. Every fall, thousands of hard-working Americans across 11 Midwestern states venture to local forests, fields and backyards to collect wild Black Walnuts. The crop is then taken to Hammons hulling stations for purchasing and processing.
Wild Black Walnuts have long been a part of the American family tradition. This delicious nut is commonly used as an ingredient in recipes, such as cakes, pies, breads and cookies along with wild rice dishes, cheese dips and more. Did you know that Black Walnuts are healthy too? With more protein than any other tree nut (7 grams per serving), antioxidants and Omega 3’s, Black Walnuts are a natural source of nutrition. Black Walnuts are also Non-GMO and gluten-free. Try toasting Black Walnuts for a robust salad topping, adding them to your favorite trail mix, yogurt or oatmeal.
Foodies and chefs love the distinctive taste and texture that only Black Walnuts can provide to many foods. Check out our wide variety of recipes and follow us on social media for all our latest creations.
