You might not think of acorns as food, but for centuries, they have been used by various cultures as a source of nutrition. It come from oak trees and are technically nuts, though they are often overlooked in modern diets. However, before you decide to gather a handful and start snacking, it is important to know that acorns must be soaked or boiled before they are safe to eat.
The reason lies in the high tannin content found in raw acorns. Tannins are bitter plant compounds that can cause stomach irritation and interfere with nutrient absorption. In large quantities, they can be mildly toxic. This is why consuming raw acorns is not recommended for humans.
To make acorns edible, they need to go through a leaching process, which removes the tannins. This is done by soaking them in water, either cold or hot, and replacing the water several times until it runs clear and the bitterness is gone. Some people prefer to boil the acorns for faster results. Once the tannins are removed, the acorns can be dried, ground into flour, or roasted for snacking.
Acorns are rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and small amounts of protein and fat, making them a valuable wild food source when prepared correctly.
So next time you see acorns on the ground, remember that they are more than just squirrel snacks—they are edible and nutritious if you take the time to prepare them the right way.
Source : webmd.com
