How to Crack Nuts
Nuts are a great source of vitamin E and protein, but watch out for the fat content. Cracking them can be tricky, so follow these hints to make it a little easier on yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Almonds
- Beechnuts
- Cashews
- Chestnuts
- Hazelnuts
- Peanuts
- Pecans
- Pistachios
- Walnuts
- Airtight Containers
- Nutcrackers
- Hammers
- Brazil nuts
Instructions
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1
Freeze nuts, especially Brazil nuts, or soak them in water for several hours before cracking.
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2
Stand frozen nuts with the point facing up and hit with a hard object, such as a hammer, to crack.
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3
Crack soaked nuts with a nutcracker. Place the nut in the grip of the nutcracker so that the seam of the shell is subjected to the direct force.
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4
Use minimum force necessary to split the shell when squeezing, in order to avoid crushing the nut kernel inside. Rotate the nut while squeezing so the shell cracks slowly.
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5
Extract the kernel from the shell.
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6
Allow the kernels of soaked nuts to dry for a few hours after cracking.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Crack nuts of the same size in batches, to speed up the process.
Check a few of the previously soaked nuts to make sure they have completely dried before storing.
Store shelled nuts in an airtight container in a cool area, such as the refrigerator. Keep in mind, however, that the best way to store nuts is unshelled.
Toast shelled nuts in a 350-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they smell toasty. Don't burn them!
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Comments
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bugmenomore
Feb 13, 2011
An adjustable vicegrip or hand-pruner is the way to go, at least for black walnuts. This allows the shell to be broken or cut away from the living part, keeping it better-intact. -
Dec 19, 2005
Using a nut cracker designed especially for hard shell nuts is safer and easier than using a hammer to crack your nuts. The Kenkel nutcracker even adjusts to different size nuts.
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Dec 19, 2005
Using a nut cracker designed especially for hard shell nuts is safer and easier than using a hammer to crack your nuts. The Kenkel nutcracker even adjusts to different size nuts.
