Things You'll Need
Almonds
Beechnuts
Cashews
Chestnuts
Hazelnuts
Peanuts
Pecans
Pistachios
Walnuts
Airtight Containers
Nutcrackers
Hammers
Brazil nuts
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.
Step 1
Freeze nuts, especially Brazil nuts, or soak them in water for several hours before cracking.
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Step 2
Stand frozen nuts with the point facing up and hit with a hard object, such as a hammer, to crack.
Step 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.
Step 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.
Step 5
Extract the kernel from the shell.
Step 6
Allow the kernels of soaked nuts to dry for a few hours after cracking.
Tip
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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