I make these every Christmas.  A pretty stemware goblet like those found at Pier One, Cost Plus, etc. for 5-10 bucks filled with these make a great gift.  Otherwise, they're delicious out of hand, or in salads.

 

Set out wax paper, two big mixing bowls, 3 qt (medium) saucepan, deep frying pan, colander, large slotted spoon. 

 

6 cups water

4 cups walnut halves

1/2 c. granulated sugar

salad oil (Canola or other unflavored)

1/8 - 1/4 tsp. salt

 

Heat water to rolling boil in saucepan, add walnuts, bring water back to boil then cook one minute.  Drain, rinse walnuts in colander. 

 

Pour sugar in large bowl, add walnuts and toss to coat thoroughly. 

 

Set colander atop another bowl.  Put a couple feet of wax paper on counter - you will place walnuts after they're cooked and drained on it. 

 

Heat about one inch salad oil in skillet to 350 degrees.  (I don't use thermometer - turn flame medium high, heat oil for about five minutes). 

 

Using slotted spoon, add half of the walnuts to oil.  Fry for about five minutes, or until walnuts start turning a deep golden brown.  (Once this starts to happen, you'll have to work fast - spoon out walnuts with slotted spoon into colander to drain. Sprinkle with a little salt, toss them lightly, and transfer to wax paper to cool.  Repeat with second batch. 

 

Let walnuts cool thoroughly on wax paper, then store in a covered container.  I've found they keep  well for at least a week, even longer if covered tightly.