per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 9.6 g
9.6%
Proteins 24.1 g
24.1%
Fats 59.3 g
59.3%
Water 4.6 g
4.6%
Fiber 6.8 grams
Starch 0.2 grams
Trans Fats 0.2 grams
Cholesterol 0.2 grams
Ash 2.5 grams

Black Walnuts

619 Calories per 100g

Black walnuts, or Juglans nigra, are a highly popular, dark colored nut indigenous to North America and parts of Northern Mexico. They are a hardwood tree, with the nuts being oval shaped and covered in abrasive husks that are difficult to remove. Walnuts are generally around an inch and a half in width and two and a half inches in height, and the husk can range in color from yellow green, to brownish black. The nuts themselves have a deep and transformational flavor that is highly valued for culinary and culinary uses. In addition, black walnuts are used as a natural dye, for medicinal purposes and are linked to numerous environmental benefits due to their high-nutrient content and ability to reduce noise and carbon pollution.

The unique flavor of black walnuts has long been appreciated by food lovers, from early settlers in the 1600s to modern day chefs. The potency of the slightly bitter, earthy flavor has made black walnuts a versatile ingredient, with applications ranging from sweet desserts to savory side dishes and beyond. Some popular uses include using the nuts to add crunch to oatmeal and other breakfast cereals, and creating delicious crumbles and toppings for fruit pies, custards, and tarts. Any recipe that calls for chopped, ground, or grated walnuts will be more flavorful if black walnuts are used instead of the more mild tasting options.

Nutrition-wise, black walnuts contain some essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin E. They are also an excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for regulating inflammation and heart health, as well as antioxidants like ellagitannins and punicalagins which help to fight free radical damage and support healthy aging.

Beyond culinary use, black walnuts have multiple environmental benefits since they can reduce noise pollution, help with erosion control, and combat carbon pollution. The trees have been found to provide excellent shade for areas like parks and large grounds, which can have a huge impact on reducing noise levels, improving air quality, and moderating the temperature of these large open spaces. In addition, their strong and deep roots are able to help create a stable soil structure and reduce the damage from excess runoff. This is particularly helpful in helping catch large amounts of rainwater, which prevents flooding as well as providing a critical water reserve during dry periods.

The tree has also been found to help with carbon emissions and reduce the overall carbon footprint. Due to their high nutrient content, black walnuts offer improved crop production and soil fertility, which helps to reduce the need for additional fertilizer or chemicals. Furthermore, the walnuts store large amounts of carbon in their trunks and roots over time, which reduces the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and helps to combat global warming.

Despite the numerous advantages that black walnuts provide, there are a few drawbacks. For example, they can be difficult to cultivate and harvest due to the thick, hard husks that protect the nuts. They also produce toxic juglone, which can restrict the types of plants that can grow near the tree, which can make it difficult to introduce them into an existing garden. Lastly, though walnuts are hardy and drought-resistant, they are vulnerable to disease and could require extra maintenance.

Ultimately, black walnuts are a nutritious and versatile nut that offer flavor, nutrition, and multiple environmental benefits. Though they may require extra care to harvest and cultivate, their unique flavor, sustainability, and health benefits are worth the effort.