Hey there! I'm a supplier of bulk walnuts in shell, and I know how important it is to clean these nuts properly without losing their amazing flavor. In this blog, I'll share some tips and tricks on how to do just that.
First off, let's talk about why cleaning walnuts in shell is necessary. When walnuts are harvested, they come with all sorts of dirt, debris, and even some natural oils on their shells. Cleaning them not only makes them more appealing to look at but also helps in getting rid of any potential contaminants. However, we don't want to over - clean and end up washing away the flavor that makes walnuts so great.
Pre - Cleaning Inspection
Before you start the cleaning process, it's a good idea to do a quick inspection of your bulk walnuts. Sort through them and remove any cracked or damaged shells. Cracked shells can let water and cleaning agents penetrate the nut inside, causing it to spoil or lose its flavor. You can check out Cracked Walnut Shells to learn more about the issues related to them.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method
Water Soak
One of the simplest ways to clean walnuts in shell is by soaking them in water. Fill a large container with lukewarm water. The lukewarm temperature is important because hot water can affect the flavor of the walnuts, and cold water might not be as effective in removing dirt.
Add the walnuts to the water and let them soak for about 15 - 20 minutes. During this time, gently stir the walnuts a few times. This will help loosen the dirt and debris on the shells. After soaking, drain the water and rinse the walnuts under running water. Make sure to use a colander to hold the walnuts while rinsing.
Mild Soap Solution
If the walnuts are really dirty, you can use a mild soap solution. But be very careful with this method, as using too much soap or a harsh soap can leave a soapy taste on the shells and potentially seep into the nuts.
Mix a small amount of mild, food - grade soap in lukewarm water. Soak the walnuts in this solution for about 10 minutes. Then, rinse them thoroughly under running water until there's no trace of soap left. You don't want any soapy residue on the walnuts as it can definitely ruin the flavor.
Drying the Walnuts
After cleaning, it's crucial to dry the walnuts properly. Moisture left on the shells can lead to mold growth, which is a big no - no.
Air Drying
The simplest way to dry walnuts is by air - drying. Spread the cleaned walnuts in a single layer on a clean, dry surface. You can use a baking sheet or a wire rack. Make sure the area is well - ventilated. It might take a few days for the walnuts to dry completely, depending on the humidity in the air.
Using a Dehydrator
If you're in a hurry, you can use a dehydrator. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, around 95 - 100°F (35 - 38°C). High temperatures can damage the flavor of the walnuts. Place the walnuts in the dehydrator and let them dry for a few hours until they're completely dry.
Storing the Cleaned Walnuts
Once the walnuts are dry, you need to store them properly to maintain their flavor.
In a Cool, Dark Place
Store the walnuts in a cool, dark place. A pantry or a cellar is a great option. You can keep them in a sealed container to protect them from air and moisture.
Freezing
If you want to store the walnuts for a longer time, you can freeze them. Place the walnuts in a freezer - safe bag or container. Freezing can help preserve the flavor of the walnuts for up to a year.
Our Walnut Products
As a bulk walnuts in shell supplier, I'm proud to offer some great products. Check out our Xiner Unwashed Inshell Walnuts. These walnuts are of high quality and have a rich, natural flavor. We also have High Quality Organic Walnut for those who prefer organic options.
Contact for Purchase
If you're interested in purchasing our bulk walnuts in shell, don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to discuss your needs and offer the best deals. Whether you're a retailer, a food manufacturer, or just someone who loves walnuts, we've got you covered.
References
- "Walnut Production and Processing Handbook" by various authors. This handbook provides in - depth information on all aspects of walnuts, including cleaning and storage.
- "The Nut Grower's Guide" which has useful tips on handling different types of nuts, including walnuts.