A delicacy which should be attempted whenever green walnuts are available.

　　

Ingredients

1 pound fresh shelled green walnuts

　　2 1/4 cups sugar

　　2 cups water

　　1 tablespoon lemon juice

　　4 or 5 cloves

　　

Step 1

Shell the walnuts carefully, trying not to break them. Soak them in cold water for 5 or 6 days, changing the water twice a day to remove any bitterness.

　　

Step 2

Make a syrup by boiling the sugar and water with lemon juice until thickened enough to fall in heavy drops from a spoon. Let the syrup cool, then add the well-drained walnuts. Bring to the boil gently and simmer for 1/2 hour. Remove the pan from the heat and leave the walnuts submerged in the syrup overnight at room temperature.

　　

Step 3

The following day, add the cloves, bring to the boil again, and simmer for 1/2 hour. Pour the walnuts and syrup into a clean glass jar, allow to cool, and close tightly.

　　The New Book of Middle Eastern Food Copyright © 2000Knopf