How to Crack Open a Brazil Nut

Brazil nuts not only grow in Brazil, they grow wild in forests in Bolivia and Peru as well. Large coconut-sized pods develop at the tops of trees that reach heights of 165 feet. The pod contains 10 to 25 three-sided seeds commonly referred to as Brazil nuts. Gathering the pods takes place well after they have fallen from the trees, as falling pods pose considerable risk of injury to workers. If left to germinate, the hard shell softens and sprouts in approximately a year. Often found in packages of mixed nuts during the holidays, Brazil nuts can be difficult to crack, but there are ways to make the job easier.

Things You'll Need

• Nutcracker or mallet Kettle or cooking pot Baking pan

Instructions

Three Ways to Prepare Brazil Nuts for Cracking

1. Place the Brazil nuts in the freezer for several hours, causing the insides to freeze and pull away slightly from the shell. Then crack the nuts with a mallet or nutcracker, which produces a clean break and allows the meat to come out in one piece.

2. Boil the nuts in water for three minutes to soften the outer shell if you prefer not to wait for them to freeze. Remove and plunge them into ice water for two minutes. Drain and then crack with a nutcracker.

3. Spread a single layer of Brazil nuts on a baking pan or cookie sheet and roast for 15 minutes in a 350 degree oven. This will not only make cracking the shell easier but will enhance the flavor. Allow the nuts to cool slightly, then crack with a mallet or nutcracker.

References

• Food Encyclopedia: Brazil Nuts