How Are Corn Nuts Made?

Corn nuts are made through a fascinating process that involves several steps:

1. Starting with Corn: The journey begins with whole kernels of corn, usually yellow dent corn, which is a variety known for its high starch content.

2. Soaking and Cooking: The corn kernels are soaked in water for a period of time, which helps to soften them and prepare them for the next step. After soaking, they are cooked under pressure. This process breaks down the starch molecules in the corn, giving it a more pliable consistency.

3. Shelling and Hulling: The cooked corn kernels are then shelled to remove the outer husk. The kernels are then hulled, which means removing the thin, papery layer that surrounds the endosperm (the starchy part of the kernel).

4. Salt Brine: The hulled kernels are then immersed in a salt brine solution. This helps to season the corn nuts and give them their characteristic salty flavor.

5. Roasting: The seasoned corn kernels are roasted in a rotating drum, which allows them to cook evenly and develop their signature crunchy texture. The heat of the roasting process also helps to further break down the starch molecules, contributing to the corn nuts' unique, puffed-up shape.

6. Cooling and Packaging: Once the corn nuts are fully roasted, they are cooled and packaged for distribution.

The Result:

The final product is a crunchy, savory snack that's perfect for munching on its own or adding to a trail mix. Corn nuts are surprisingly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Fun Fact: The process of making corn nuts is similar to the way that popcorn is made. Both snacks are created by using heat to rapidly expand the starch molecules in the corn kernel.