Fresh Green Beans (© Carolyn Thompson | Dreamstime.com)

Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching and many will soon be making final decisions on side dishes. We think this recipe calling for one of America's great heirloom foods makes a fine seasonal choice for the anuual autumn feast. Gathered in the Midwest and East-Central United States, the American Black Walnut is a splendid choice for an indigenous ingredient. Its superior, pungent flavor has elevated it to the status of the "Ultimate Nut" for foodies who place rigorous demands on their recipes.

American Black Walnuts can turn everyday dishes into exciting signature creations with their rich, robust, almost smoky taste. No other walnut can match the distinctive depth of its flavor. The Hammons Company of Missouri is one of the world’s premier suppliers of American Black Walnuts, so here’s a healthy recipe from the folks at Hammons for your culinary consideration.

Ingredients

• 1 Pound green beans, trimmed, cut into 2 inch lengths
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 Teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 Cup raisins, minced
• 1/4 Cup American Black Walnuts
• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Cook green beans in large pot of boiling, salted water until crisp-tender, about 6 minutes; drain. Rinse under cold water to cool, drain well.

2. Melt butter in heavy, large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ginger, raisins and black walnuts; cook until ginger and black walnuts are just golden brown, stirring constantly, about 2 minutes.

3. Add green beans and lemon juice and cook until beans are heated through and coated with black walnut mixture, stirring constantly, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and fresh ground pepper.

To learn more about a couple of America's superb heirloom nuts, go to: Bakers Bounty! Fancy Large Premium Black Walnuts & Native Pecan Halves

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