How to Shell Brazil Nuts

Last Updated: April 27, 2020

Brazil nuts look like hard work to crack, but there are a couple different ways to attack them that can have you on your way to a delicious snack in no time!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:
Freezing method

1
Place the Brazil nuts in the freezer for a few hours.
2
Remove and crack the nuts with a nut cracker. The shell will break easily.

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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:
Boiling method

1
Boil water on the stove top.
2
Add the Brazil nuts and allow to boil for one minute.
3
Remove from the boiling water and plunge straight into the cold water. This stops the cooking. Take care when handling the hot water.
4
Crack them. The shells will come off easily.

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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:
Oven method

1
Arrange the Brazil nuts on baking trays (baking sheets).
2
Place in a moderate oven (180ºC/350ºF).
3
Bake for 15 minutes.
4
Remove from the oven and crack.

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Community Q&A
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Question

How should I store Brazil nuts?

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Brazil nuts are best stored in a cool environment. Place them into an airtight storage container and keep them refrigerated or even frozen until needed. If refrigerated, use them within 4 months; if frozen, use them within 6 months (thaw before eating).
Question

Are Brazil nuts good in baking?

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Yes, Brazil nuts can be used in baking. Chop them into a small pieces and add to the recipe in place of other nuts.
Question

Can I have Brazil nuts for breakfast?

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Yes, Brazil nuts can be enjoyed for breakfast. Try them chopped up and tossed through your usual cereal or sprinkled over fruit and yogurt.
Question

I tried this and 15 minutes was too long and maybe too high a temp. I only left them in for a little over 5 minutes and they were burning. However they did crack open easily and the nut was whole.

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Test the temperature of your oven with an oven thermometer before adding the nuts next time and if it's too hot, then make adjustments before adding the nuts. If the temperature is reading correctly, then reduce the amount of time for the nuts and see if they can be shelled within a shorter period of time; if not, return them for a few minutes more.
Question

Are Brazil nuts healthy?

Community Answer

Brazil nuts are healthy in small amounts; they contain a high amount of selenium, a mineral that can help relieve depression. They also contain thiamin, vitamin E, magnesium and other nutrients, along with dietary fiber. However, there are some concerns; for example the EU regulates the import of Brazil nuts strictly from Brazil due to worries about high levels of aflatoxins, which may cause cancer. Also, they have small amounts of radium, at a level higher than many other foods; this has concerned some scientists, such as Dr. Jane Plant. They are best eaten in small amounts.