As promised here are some great ideas for using Bunya Nuts from the Vegie Interest Group –
submitted by Di Howard
What to do to prepare the Bunya Nut. They usually drop off the tree so when they open up you collect all the nuts.
Then the fun begins. They require either boiling or roasting. It is best if you break the shell slightly before cooking as they may explode. They need to be boiled for an hour to release them from their shell. Alternatively you can roast them which also takes an hour in a moderate oven. Once boiled or roasted you have to crack the open to release the nut.
This is best done with a nut‐cracker. If you have some Bunya Nuts start using them . The end result is delicious
Bunya Nut Pesto
100g Bunya nuts, de shelled
1.1/2 cups firmly packed Basil leaves ( about 100 grams)
60 grams Parmesan Cheese
2 cloves garlic – finely chopped
1/2 cup Macadamia nut oil
Salt and Pepper to taste
Place basil, bunya nuts and garlic in a food processor.
Process until smooth. With the motor running add oil in a steady stream.
Process until all oil is combined.
Add parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, process briefly until combined.
Use as you would pine nut pesto- spread, dips, pizza.
Next post will be for a Bunya Nut Cake.
