To Buy:
Buy shelled and unshelled. Unshelled is the safest way to ensure the walnut is fresh. Otherwise buy shelled, whole walnuts from a supplier with a high turnover of produce.
When buying unshelled, look for undamaged shells with no tiny wormholes. Buy ones that feel heavy for thier size. If they rattle when shaked, the nuts may be dried out and withered.
Buy small packets rather than in bulk - shelled nuts should look ( and smell ) fresh. Avoid any that look withered and dried out. Check any dates on the packaging. Best to buy the nuts whole that chopped.
To Store:
To prevent walnuts becoming rancid, store them in the fridge or in a cool, dry cupboard away from direct sunlight for up to three months. Walnuts can also be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Tips & Tricks:
To chop walnuts for a cake or muffin recipe, process them in a food processor with a small amount of flour.
Cooking Tips:
Dry roast walnuts in a frying pan on the oven hot plate. Delicious over salads, in desserts and with breakfast oats.