Walnuts, rich in nutrients and health benefits, are one of the most beloved snacks worldwide. However, there’s a little-known trick that can radically transform the experience of enjoying them: soaking shelled walnuts in boiling water.
In this article, we’ll explore the scientific and culinary reasons behind this practice, with a focus on eliminating bitter substances that can compromise the pleasure of eating walnuts.
Eliminating bitter substances: Walnuts naturally contain bitter substances like phytates and tannins that can impact their overall flavor. Soaking walnuts in boiling water acts as an effective method to eliminate or reduce these unwanted substances. The hot water helps break down and reduce the concentrations of these bitter compounds, significantly improving the final taste of the walnuts.
Improving digestibility: Removing bitter substances not only makes walnuts tastier but can also contribute to improving their digestibility. Some people might experience gastrointestinal discomfort due to the bitter substances in walnuts, so by soaking them in boiling water, you can make this delightful snack gentler on the digestive system.
Enhancing nutrient absorption: Bitter substances in walnuts can negatively affect the body’s absorption of nutrients. By soaking walnuts in boiling water, you can reduce the negative impact of these bitter substances, allowing the body to derive maximum nutritional benefits from this superfood.
Enhancing texture and flavor: Boiling water not only addresses the bitter component of walnuts but can also improve their texture and flavor. Soaked walnuts can become softer, and if desired, you can add spices or flavors to the water. This process adds a touch of complexity to the walnuts’ taste profile, making the experience even more satisfying.
Walnuts should be soaked in boiling water for about 5 minutes and then, of course, allowed to cool before consumption.
Soaking walnuts in boiling water is a culinary trick that can transform how we enjoy this nutritious snack. Eliminating bitter substances not only enhances the taste but also makes walnuts easier to digest and ensures optimal nutrient absorption.
So, the next time you want to savor some walnuts, consider the idea of soaking them in boiling water to harness all the benefits listed above.
