Walnut is a significant part of Kashmiri culture. It is said that that the four kernels of the walnut represent – Dharma ( guiding principles by which we live life ) Artha ( Meaning of life ) Kama ( desires) and Moksha ( Nirvana). It is also believed to be symbolic of the four Vedas – Rig, Yajur, Atharva and Sama.
The whole walnut with the shell on is an essential element in all Kashmiri rituals and important religious festivals. The Festival of Herath ( Shivratri) – The celebration of the union of Shiva and Shakti – being the most important of them. An earthen pot is filled with water and walnuts and prayers are offered. Three days after the Pooja, the walnuts are shared with neighbors, friends and family. So while you are sending out the Prashad (sacred offering), more is coming your way too.
Kashmiri Walnut Chutney
In Kashmir, walnuts are an essential part of Birthday celebrations, Sonth ( spring festival ) and the Navreh (New year ). And with so much emphasis on its use, it was kind of hard to not like them when I was young.
So if you are a Kashmiri, like me, you have a lot of reasons and ways to eat walnuts – like this walnut chutney. If you are not a Kashmiri, you still have a lot of reasons to eat walnuts and the walnut chutney.
They help with weight management : Even though walnuts are high in calories and contain fat, they can actually help you to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. The fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals can boost your health and help you to avoid eating too many other foods that are high in calories but low in nutrition. So munch on.
They help with diabetes – Studies have found that a diet supplemented with walnuts may positively impact individuals with diabetes.
Walnuts help improve Sleep :- The body’s pineal gland produces the hormone melatonin that induces sleep and helps regulate sleep. This hormone is found in walnuts–making walnuts a great evening or bedtime snack for improving your sleep.
And I am sure you already know about the heart health benefits of walnuts since they are a good source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids .
Walnut is out ingredient of the week at 38 powerfoods blog group. Do visiit Jeanette at jeanetteshealthyliving ; Martha at Simply Nourished Living ; Mireya at Myhealthyeatinghabits ; Alyce at More time at the table ; Minnie at thelady8home.com , Casey at Sweetsav to read their stories and recipes on walnuts.
Walnut Chutney
Ingredients
- 1/2 C mint leaves rinsed and drained
- 3/4 C walnut halves
- 1 clove garlic
- 4-5 thai green chilies adjust quantity as needed- this is HOT
- salt to taste
- 2 tbs water
Instructions
- Place everything in a blender.
- Blend until very smooth.
- Use as a chutney with Indian meals or a dip with vegetables and kebabs