How to Extract Unripe English Walnuts

Extracting English walnuts from the hull when unripe can stain clothes and skin. There are several methods for extraction, and each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Choose the one that suits you best.

• 1

  Precondition the nut shells by soaking them in water for one to two hours. Then drain and keep the nuts moist overnight in an airtight container.

• 2

  Slowly driving over the nuts will crack the hulls without hurting the nutmeat. If you have a gravel driveway, place them on the ground in the driveway and drive over them. If you have a concrete driveway, lay down an old tablecloth, plastic tarp or some other waterproof material to protect the concrete from the dye.

• 3

  Hammering the nuts will also crack the shell, but it requires a bit of strength and work.

• 4

  Placing the nut in a vise and using a sharp knife to open it is another way of removing the hull. This is best done without distractions as it requires careful concentration.