Jixian Walnuts

Jixian Walnuts

　　Jixian walnuts are renowned both in China and abroad, with their products exported to all corners of the world. Tianjin’s Jixian County is one of the earliest regions in China to cultivate walnuts and is also known as the “Hometown of Walnuts.” Jixian walnuts are mainly grown in semi-mountainous towns in the northern part of the county such as Sungezhuang, XujiaTai, Guanzhuang, and Baijian, with scattered trees found throughout the mountainous and semi-mountainous areas. The main varieties of Jixian walnuts include round soft-shell walnuts, soft-shell walnuts, long soft-shell walnuts, flat soft-shell walnuts, small soft-shell walnuts, and soft-cup walnuts. Among these, the round soft-shell walnut has the largest cultivation area, highest yield, and best quality. Jixian (Jizhou) walnuts are characterized by their thin shells and large fruit. According to modern scientific analysis, walnut kernels contain 15.4% protein, 40%–63% fat, 10% carbohydrates, as well as abundant calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, carotene, riboflavin, and vitamins A, B, C, and E. To eat a walnut, simply crack it gently with a nutcracker, remove the hard shell and the central septum, and then enjoy the kernel. It is best to eat the thin membrane on the kernel as well.

In addition, wild mountain walnuts and hickory nuts are also abundant in the area. These walnuts grow naturally without human intervention, ensuring their original rich flavor. They taste extremely delicious, and small walnuts are also considered a green food that nourishes the brain, often recorded in medical texts. Regular consumption of wild hickory nuts and walnut products can strengthen the spleen and stimulate appetite, nourish the kidneys and moisten the lungs, aid recovery, prevent coronary heart disease, and lower blood lipids. It is a healthy, delicious, and nutritious natural green food. The kernels are highly nutritious. Hickory nut kernels contain 7.8%–9.6% protein, with over seven essential amino acids accounting for more than 25% of the total content. They also contain 22 mineral elements, including high levels of nutritionally valuable calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. Due to their exceptional nutritional value, locals recommend pregnant women to eat this type of walnut. However, these walnuts have extremely hard shells—even red bricks usually can't crack them open. Hard stones or metal tools are needed, making them somewhat difficult to eat. They are best enjoyed leisurely at home to savor their rich, nutty flavor.

Walnut kernels are rich in protein and essential unsaturated fatty acids needed by the human body. They can nourish brain cells and enhance brain function. They also help prevent arteriosclerosis and lower cholesterol. With high levels of vitamin E, regular consumption of walnut kernels helps moisturize the skin and darken hair, leaving the skin smooth and elastic. Given their rich nutritional profile, walnuts have earned titles such as the “Fruit of Longevity,” “Elixir of Life,” and “Treasure for Health.” Our site specially offers wild hickory walnuts from the Yanshan Mountains, which boast an even richer flavor.

Precautions for Eating Walnuts: Walnuts are considered the king of antioxidants. They contain arginine, oleic acid, and antioxidants that are highly beneficial for protecting the cardiovascular system and preventing coronary heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. However, do not eat too many at once, as this may affect digestion. Some people prefer to peel off the brown thin skin on the surface of walnut kernels, but doing so will cause you to lose some nutrients. Therefore, it is best not to remove this layer.