The Proper Way for People to Crack Open Brazil Nuts

Use heat and cold to properly remove a Brazil nut's hard outer shell.

Brazil nuts are the seeds of trees that grow in the Amazon rain forests of Peru, Bolivia and Brazil. These nuts have been eaten by the indigenous tribes of this region for centuries and were introduced to other parts of the world during the 19th century. The Brazil nut's hard outer shell must be cracked in order to enjoy, which can be accomplished with much less effort if done properly.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow baking pan
• Large pot
• 1 gallon cold water
• Small mallet

Instructions

1. Place a single layer of Brazil nuts onto a shallow baking pan.

2. Place the baking pan into the freezer for six to eight hours.

3. Place the frozen nuts into a large pot that is filled with 1 gallon of cold water.

4. Drain the water from the pot and allow the nuts to cool completely.

5. Break open the hard outer shell of nut with a small mallet.

References

• Practically Edible: Brazil Nuts
• Ripe Gifts: Brazil Nuts