Fats contained in walnut kernels are the main reason for their short storage. With the right conditions, this period can be greatly extended. It is believed that walnuts are better preserved in the shell than without it. The dense shell not only prevents the negative effects of light, but also slows down the production of oil.
The nuances of storing walnuts at home:
- when storing walnut kernels, it is necessary to choose containers that can be closed with a lid (containers and jars must always be dry);
- heat and light can shorten the shelf life of walnuts (which is why it is not recommended to store nuts open or in plastic bags);
- walnuts can be placed in a refrigerator or freezer (low temperatures do not adversely affect either the shelf life or the taste of the kernels);
- if walnuts have acquired an unpleasant odor, then they should not be eaten (spoiled nuts can cause not only an eating disorder, but also poisoning);
- when storing walnut kernels, it is imperative to remove the remnants of the shell and any debris, as well as damaged or too dry nuts (all these nuances significantly reduce the shelf life of walnuts);
- despite the long shelf life, nuts should be eaten as early as possible, if they are shelled (the longer walnuts are stored, the more there is a risk of bitterness in their taste);
- if mold appears on the surface of the nuts, then you need to get rid of them urgently (in no case should you eat them);
- do not store wet nuts (moisture will quickly cause mold);
- the remains of the shell in the kernels can accelerate the process of the appearance of fungi (before storing the nuts, it is imperative to sort out the nuts);
- walnut kernels are well stored in foil (this packaging method is ideal for a refrigerator or freezer);
- if you plan to store walnuts in the shell, then it is recommended to pre-burn them for some time in the oven (maximum 10 minutes);
- walnut kernels with the addition of additional ingredients are not stored for a long time (sugar, salt and other components reduce their shelf life and should be eaten as soon as possible);
- from fried kernels, oil is released faster, so such nuts should not be stored for a long time either.
Do not confuse heating walnuts with roasting them. Calcination is a short-term heat treatment. This process does not affect the taste and appearance of the kernels. Short-term heating of nuts is most often used if they are planned to be stored in the shell.
How much and at what temperature can walnuts be stored
Walnuts can be stored in cloth bags from 2 to 6 months. In this case, you need to choose a cool and dark place. Drawers above heat sources are not suitable for this role. The best options are pantries or cabinets on the balcony. In no case should light fall on the nuts.
In containers and glass containers, walnuts are stored for 6-10 months. Under optimal temperature conditions, they can remain fresh throughout the year, but subject to the presence of the shell. Without a shell, nuts cannot be stored for longer than 6-9 months.
Walnuts are stored in the refrigerator or freezer for at least one year. If you do not allow sudden changes in temperature (for example, re-freezing or frequent movement of nuts from the refrigerator to room conditions and back to the cold), then you can not worry about changing their taste properties even for two years.
The optimal temperature range for storing walnuts is from -5 to +10 degrees. At other temperatures, the kernels may begin to secrete oil, and the process of decay will occur at an accelerated pace.