Yes, black walnuts are edible and can be eaten safely if properly harvested and processed. They have a strong, earthy flavor that some people enjoy, especially when incorporated into desserts like ice cream, brownies, and cookies. However, black walnuts have a very hard shell and the husks contain a staining substance called juglone, so they need to be handled carefully. The walnuts should be dried and cured properly for several weeks in a well- ventilated, shady area before eating or storing. Once the nuts are dried and shelled, the nutmeat can be eaten raw or used in various recipes. It is important to avoid moldy or improperly cured walnuts due to potential toxins. In summary, black walnuts are safe and nutritious to eat, but require labor- intensive preparation for best flavor and safety.
