What Are the Ways to Eat Ginkgo Nuts?

Ginkgo nuts—also known as “white fruits”—are a relatively common food in daily life. However, there are numerous ways to prepare and consume them, many of which remain unfamiliar to the general public. So, what are the common methods for preparing and eating ginkgo nuts?

How to Prepare and Eat Ginkgo Nuts

Ginkgo (also referred to as ginkgo leaf) offers versatile culinary applications. First, it can be used as a flavor enhancer in savory dishes. After removing the outer seed coat, ginkgo kernels may be added to roasted chicken, roasted duck, or other roasted meats. Incorporating ginkgo flesh helps reduce the greasiness of meat dishes, thereby stimulating appetite and aiding digestion. When used as a seasoning, ginkgo should be added toward the end of cooking—since its starch content readily gelatinizes, adding it after the main ingredients are nearly cooked preserves its delicate aroma and pleasant texture while minimizing potential toxicity risks.

Second, ginkgo nuts serve as an important ingredient in baked goods and pastries. When incorporated into cakes or confections, they impart a subtle waxy mouthfeel and distinctive fragrance, enhancing both texture and flavor. Moreover, their inclusion boosts the nutritional and therapeutic value of such foods. Third, ginkgo nuts are widely consumed as snacks or health-promoting foods. Naturally endowed with medicinal properties, they offer both gustatory pleasure and functional health benefits. For instance, fragrant and refreshing ginkgo nut soup not only satisfies hunger but also provides therapeutic effects, making it a popular choice for homemade beverages.

To prepare ginkgo tea: remove the embryo (germ) from the kernel, crush the nut, pour boiling water over it, and add sugar before drinking directly—or mix it into soy milk. Alternatively, based on personal preference, ginkgo nuts may be simmered with milk, pears, or other ingredients to create nourishing desserts. We hope this information proves helpful!