walnut

The fruit of the walnut tree, which grows throughout the world in temperate climates. The two main varieties are Persian/English and Black. The Persian walnut is often incorrectly known as "English Walnut" in the United States. The black nuts are edible, but have a smaller kernel and an extremely tough shell and are not widely grown for nut production. The word "walnut" originates from wahlnut, an Old English word for "Welsh-nut." Walnuts were a delicacy of the ancient Romans and were used not only for eating but also to dye wool and color hair.

plural: walnuts

Ingredient

Season: September - November

How to select: Select from among three sizes: large, medium and babies. Look for shells free of cracks or holes. If shelled, look for plump, crisp nutmeats.

How to store: Store in a cool dry place for up to three months if in the shell. Once shelled, store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or frozen up to a year.

Matches well with: blue cheese, caramel, cheese, fish, mushrooms, pork, port, raisins, salads, sherry, zucchini