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Pickled walnuts are a versatile British pantry staple that can be used in everything from cheese boards to stews, and they add a unique tangy, spiced flavor to many dishes.
If you’ve ever stared at a jar of pickled walnuts wondering what to do with them, you’re not alone.
These dark, wrinkled little gems are more than just a quirky condiment.
They’re a secret weapon in the kitchen once you know how to use them.
In this post, we’ll explore what to do with pickled walnuts, from simple serving ideas to creative recipes that will make you fall in love with them.
Let’s dive in.
What to Do with Pickled Walnuts: The Basics
The simplest thing to do with pickled walnuts is to treat them like any other pickle or chutney.
They’re ready to eat straight from the jar, and their rich, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with cold meats, cheeses, and crusty bread.
Here are a few easy ways to start using them:
1. Serve Them on a Cheese Board
Pickled walnuts are a classic companion to sharp cheddar, blue cheese, and creamy brie.
Their spiced, vinegary bite cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds a burst of flavor.
Just slice them in half and arrange them alongside your favorite cheeses, crackers, and maybe a little chutney.
It’s an instant upgrade to any ploughman’s lunch.
2. Chop Them into Salads
If you’re wondering what to do with pickled walnuts beyond the cheese board, try chopping them into salads.
They add a wonderful texture and a pop of tanginess that works especially well in grain salads, potato salads, or even a simple green salad with a vinaigrette.
The pickled walnuts’ earthy notes complement roasted vegetables, goat cheese, and bitter greens like radicchio or arugula.
3. Use Them as a Condiment for Sandwiches
For a quick and tasty lunch, layer sliced pickled walnuts into a sandwich with ham, turkey, or roast beef.
They act like a relish, adding moisture and a zesty kick.
You can also chop them finely and mix them into mayonnaise or mustard for a custom spread.
Trust me, once you try pickled walnuts on a sandwich, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Creative Cooking Ideas for Pickled Walnuts
Beyond the basics, pickled walnuts can shine in cooked dishes too.
Their unique flavor can elevate sauces, stews, and even desserts.
Here are some creative ways to cook with them:
1. Add Them to Stews and Casseroles
Pickled walnuts are a traditional addition to British stews and casseroles.
They break down during cooking and impart a deep, savory, slightly sour note that balances rich meats like beef or lamb.
Try adding a few chopped pickled walnuts to your next beef stew or lamb hotpot.
They also work well in vegetarian dishes like mushroom stroganoff or lentil stew.
2. Make a Pickled Walnut Sauce
You can blend pickled walnuts into a tangy sauce that’s perfect for roasted meats or grilled vegetables.
Simply puree a few pickled walnuts with a little of their pickling liquid, some olive oil, garlic, and a touch of honey or maple syrup.
This sauce is fantastic drizzled over roast pork, chicken, or even halloumi.
It’s a great way to use up the jar and impress your dinner guests.
3. Pair Them with Game Meats
If you’re lucky enough to have access to game meats like venison, duck, or pheasant, pickled walnuts are a match made in heaven.
Their acidity cuts through the gamey flavor and enhances the natural richness of the meat.
Serve them as a side, or chop them into a stuffing for roasted game birds.
Pickled Walnuts in Appetizers and Snacks
If you’re looking for party food ideas, pickled walnuts can be the star of some seriously tasty appetizers.
Here are a few crowd-pleasers:
1. Wrap Them in Bacon
Yes, you read that right.
Wrap whole pickled walnuts in streaky bacon and bake until crispy.
The salty bacon and tangy walnut create an irresistible sweet-and-savory bite.
Serve them warm with toothpicks for an easy party snack.
2. Make a Pickled Walnut Pâté
Blend pickled walnuts with cream cheese, a little horseradish, and fresh herbs for a quick and easy pâté.
Spread it on toast points or crackers for an elegant appetizer.
The pickled walnuts give it a unique depth that regular pâté just can’t match.
3. Add Them to Deviled Eggs
Chop pickled walnuts finely and fold them into your deviled egg filling.
The tangy, spiced flavor adds a surprising twist to a classic appetizer.
Top each egg with a small slice of pickled walnut for a pretty presentation.
So, What to Do with Pickled Walnuts?
Pickled walnuts are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, from simple cheese boards to hearty stews and elegant appetizers.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, there are endless ways to enjoy them.
So next time you have a jar sitting in the pantry, don’t let it gather dust.
Get creative and discover just how delicious pickled walnuts can be.
Whether you’re wondering what to do with pickled walnuts for a quick snack or a fancy dinner, these ideas will help you make the most of this underrated ingredient.