Overindulgence in any snack is not recommended, the same applies to corn nuts, as over-consumption can be over-caloric, and may be full of sodium, saturated fat, and additives. But you can also make these snacks at home easily with your personalized ingredients and recipes, which surely cut down on calories.

In this guide, we will look into the potential benefits and drawbacks of corn nuts along with some delicious homemade versions of nuts. 

Are Corn Nuts the True Nuts?

Regardless of their name, corn nuts are not actual nuts like pistachio, cashew, and pine nuts. These are kernels of corn that undergo various processing such as deep frying, and roasting which enhances the flavor and the kernels crunchy and crisp. 

History of Corn Nuts

These nuts date back many decades old. But in the past, the processing methods were completely different, might we say the processing approach was quite healthy? As in the past, the corn kernels used to be dehydrated which was considered as a conventional snack all over America. 

These corn snacks become popular during the 1930s, when the bar-goes used to buy them to fend off their hunger, as toasted corn snacks named Brown Jug were introduced.

But when it got prohibited by the national laws, the manufacturer, Olin Huntington introduced it to Albert Holloway, who took it to height by changing its name into ‘corn nuts’. The product soared in the 90s era and is still popular due to its fantastic taste. 

Processing of Corn Nuts

During the processing of these nuts, waxy corn is used which came all over from China in the 20s and become the favorite of processors due to sufficient out of starch present in it. It is used in making adhesives, and corn starch, and for the nuts, it is cross-bred another variety of corn which accounts for the perfect formulation of corn introduced in 1964. These smaller crunchy bites appeal to heater number of the population.  

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Ingredients Used in Processing: Firstly, it is recommended that you choose dried white corn whichever is available in the local mart near you. Select oil that has a high smoking point as you are going to incorporate high temperature during dehydration, frying, and baking.

While Choosing seasoning is entirely up to you, as you can choose simpler ones such as paprika, salt, and sugar or you can go with homemade condiments or other complex sauces.  

Equipment Required for Processing: You require a dehydrator, oven, and oven thermometer which would keep track of the temperature so that it doesn’t fluctuate much. Parchment paper must be there if you going for the oven roasting option. 

The corn nuts are prepared by following these steps: 

Pre-Hydration: Soak the waxy kernels in plain water for 2-3 days for a better taste of the end product. 

Dehydration/ Baking: The soaked kernels are either placed in a dehydrator or ovens to provide heating so that the kernels can be dried effectively, and the crunchy taste is acquired. 

Seasoning: Once the corn kernels are properly dried, they are seasoned with different flavors, i.e., Ranch, BBQ, and chocolate, etc. 

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Conventional Recipes of Corn Nuts

You can have your customized nuts by making them on your own in your kitchen by utilizing ingredients from your pantry. These nuts can be your best companion during long rides and lazy movie nights.

• Chocolate Bark Corn Nuts 

As you are choosing chocolate bark as your go-to flavor, you can dip your dehydrated corn kernels in it, and enjoy a decadent taste of chocolate along with a crisp nutty taste of corn and other nuts. 

• South American Cancha Corn Nuts

To make this recipe, concha corn your choosing, which you can purchase from the market and flavored with ceviche (i.e., raw fish marinated and cooked in lime juice) to make your corn nut crunchy. 

• Smoky Ranch Corn Nut

This recipe can be prepared by baking the corn nut. You will require to add high smoking point oil and the traditional Ranch sauce. If you don’t like the flavor of Ranch, you can acquire the Smoky flavor by adding some Italian herbs. 

Merits of Corn Nuts

Corn nuts are widely popular all over the globe due to their distinct nutrient profile than all other high-caloric snacks. The merits of Corn Nut is generally given as: 

• These nuts are whole-grain snacks so possess all the essential nutrients rather than tons of calories brought in by highly-processed snacks made of refined grains.
• Corns are rich in fiber, which makes your stomach feel full so that you don’t get indulged in binge snacking. 
• Protein content in these small snacks is pretty moderate making it a good snack than other confectioners.
• Corn nuts are rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as selenium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and B-complex vitamins.

Demerits of Corn Nut

Regardless of being whole grain snack, corn nuts still hold some drawbacks which you must be cautious of: 

• There is a risk that you can over-consume these snacks and resultantly ingest so many calories which can be hazardous for people on diet.
• Corn nuts could be harmful if they are deep fried, either due to high-calorie intake or fried food’s direct link with cardiovascular disorders.
• Corn nuts may contain sodium, due to the seasoning and spices used during processing which can cause hypertension, so you must take notice of your snack portion so that you don’t overindulge. 
• Some types of corn nut may contain additives (i.e., maltodextrin) that could be harmful.

Bottom-line 

Corn nuts are undoubtedly a treat for your taste buds due to their versatility in flavors and their somewhat healthier nutritional profile than other popular snacks.

As the excess of everything is bad, you just need to control your portion of this snack as its over-consumption may prove detrimental for hypertensive patients due to sodium, deep-fried types could be not a safe option.

But if consumed in moderate amounts, nuts are a good source of vitamins, and minerals. As they are made of whole grains, so a great source of plant-based protein. 

FAQs on Corn Nuts

Why are Corn Nuts called nuts? 

Albert Holloway officially named it Corn Nuts in 1964, because of its crunchy taste which beats the toasty crunchy nuts of peanuts. 

Why do people like corn nuts? 

The likeness is definitely due to the twisty, nutty flavor with underlying notes of sweetness which is a must-treat for everyone.

Are corm nuts good for you? 

Yes, they are comparatively other snacks a good treat but you must consume them in moderation.  

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