- Locate an oak tree and identify acorns that have fallen to the ground.
- Select large, full acorns without holes, cracks, or signs of mold.
Step 2: Remove the Husk
- Place the acorns in a strainer and rinse them under running water to remove any dirt.
- Use your fingers or a nutcracker to remove the outer hull or cupule.
Step 3: Remove the Tannins
- Acorns contain tannins, which can make them bitter and unpalatable. To remove the tannins, you need to leach them out through a process called leaching.
- Place the peeled acorns in a large bowl or pot and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer the acorns for about 10-15 minutes, or until the water turns dark brown.
- Drain the water and discard it.
- Repeat this process of boiling and draining the water 3-4 times until the water remains relatively clear.
Step 4: Dry the Acorns
- After the final leaching, drain the acorns and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel to dry.
- Let them air-dry for several hours or overnight, until they are completely dry.
Step 5: Use or Store the Acorns
- Once dried, you can use the acorns in various recipes or store them for future use.
- Acorns can be ground into flour, roasted and eaten as a snack, or used as an ingredient in soups, stews, or other dishes.
- To store acorns, place them in an airtight container and keep them in a cool, dry place. They will keep for several months.