Introduction to Boshan Walnuts
The Zibo Boshan Shengu Valley Walnut Specialized Cooperative is located in the eastern mountainous area of Boshan District, Zibo City, Shandong Province, the hometown of Jiao Yulu. The climate is pleasant with an average annual temperature of 13.6°C and annual precipitation of 736.6 millimeters, making it suitable for growing various fruit trees. The main product is the thin-skinned Xiangling walnut.
Nutritional Value
Walnuts are rich in nutrients, containing 15-20 grams of protein, 60-70 grams of fat, and 10 grams of carbohydrates per hundred grams, as well as essential calcium, phosphorus, iron, and other trace elements and minerals, along with vitamins such as carotene and riboflavin.
Historical and Folklore
The walnut originated in southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. In China, walnuts can be traced back to the early Western Han Dynasty, brought back by Zhang Qian during Emperor Wu's reign when he traveled to the Western Regions. Because they originated from the Qianghu region, they were also known as Qiang peaches or Xiang peaches. According to “The Miscellanies of the Jin,” compiled by Zhang Hua of the Jin Dynasty, “Zhang Qian planted them in Qin, gradually spreading eastward.”
Preparation and Eating Methods
There are many ways to prepare and eat walnuts. For raw consumption, simply remove the shell and eat. For cooked preparation, walnuts can be ground into a powder mixed with brown sugar and steamed into buns, or used to make porridge or walnut cakes. If pregnant women eat a few walnuts every day, it can be beneficial for their health and the development of the fetus.