Corn is a versatile and nutritious food found in cuisines worldwide. Corn nuts, a popular snack made by roasting whole kernels of corn, were created in the 20th century using a variety of corn from Peru that produces extra-large kernels. Commercially produced corn nuts come in various flavors and have the same nutritional profile as regular corn. Other seeds like soy nuts and chickpeas can also be roasted for a tasty snack.
Corn is both nutritious and highly versatile. It shows up in cuisines around the world in the form of kernels, flour, grits, and polenta, along with the American favorite, corn on the cob. As a snack, it is popular in the form of popcorn, introduced to American settlers from Native Americans. Corn nuts, a less familiar form to many, are also a snack. One makes them by roasting whole kernels of corn.
The corn nut is a 20th century American creation. The former used standard corn kernels. After some experimentation and research to improve on the original product, the creator discovered a variety of corn from Peru that produced 1 inch diameter kernels, more than double the size of American corn. The first corn kernels marketed in the United States with giant Cusco corn kernels debuted in the 1960s.
Snack manufacturers that make corn nuts use a hybrid corn that produces extra-large kernels. Retail versions of the corn nut snacks begin with a water bath that plumps the kernels before cooking. Once the beans are ready to cook, the producers add seasonings. They then roast the corn kernels in an oven until crispy or fry them in oil. Beans prepared by frying may have more calories than roasted ones.
Commercially produced corn nuts come in various flavors. Plain corn nuts commonly have only salt added during preparation. Commonly available toppings include fiery corn nuts with cayenne or chili peppers, ranch flavoring, and barbecue. Salsa and nacho flavors also appear in some product lines.
Corn is a superfood that has sustained various cultures that have harvested it or learned to grow it outside its native regions. It belongs to the vegetable group and the cereal food group. Roasted corn nuts have the same nutritional profile as regular corn before any seasonings are added. They provide protein, vitamin C, calcium, iron, dietary fiber and carbohydrates. These heart-pounding delights contain fat, but it’s mostly unsaturated, and the corn nuts contain no cholesterol.
Corn isn’t the only seed that makes for a tasty snack. Roasted soy nuts and chickpeas are often available at health food stores. You need to cook these legumes before roasting them. Once fully cooked, they’re ready to be roasted or fried to produce a crispy, portable treat. Each has its own natural flavor, although one can also add seasonings during preparation to complement those flavors.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
