Description

Greeks, Romans and Persians all cultivated walnut trees. The two most common species originated in Persia and eastern North America (black walnut), respectively. The trees can grow over 100 feet tall and establish deep root systems.
Walnuts can be eaten raw, or roasted and seasoned. Rich in antioxidants and Omega-3s, they are very popular in Central Asian and Mediterranean dishes. In Persian cuisine they have often been combined with pomegranates as a contrasting ingredient. Specific indigenous American tribes have traditionally used black walnuts extensively in their food and for other purposes.