Gingko Nuts

Gingko nuts, the round pits of the gingko fruit, are generally used in stuffings, such as for Eight-Jewel Duck. They are available fresh in Chinese markets or in cans in brine. When fresh they need to be cracked and peeled. Fresh gingko nuts will keep, uncracked and unpeeled, in the bottom bin of the refrigerator for a couple of weeks. Once cracked and peeled, they should be used immediately. Canned ones, of course, will keep indefinitely, unopened. Gingko nuts have a moist, tender, yet slightly firm and fleshy consistency and are rich, mild, and nutty in taste. They pick up the flavor of other ingredients and add a texture of their own. They can also be used in soups.