Nutcracker: How to Crack Nuts with Ease
A good nutcracker opens even the toughest shells cleanly, without crushing the kernel inside – a lovely companion for the run-up to Christmas and the cosy winter months. Here's how to use it.
What You Can Use a Nutcracker For
Walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts and macadamias – and, with a gentle touch, crab and lobster claws too. Freshly cracked nuts have far more flavour than ones that have sat packaged on a shelf for months. Take a look at the kjøk nutcracker.
Getting the Technique Right
Position the nut along its seam and apply pressure gradually – that way the shell breaks without shattering the kernel. For really tough nuts, squeeze in small stages rather than one sharp jolt. Keep a bowl underneath to catch the shell as it falls.
Common Mistakes
Squeezing with full force crushes the kernel, so go slowly and steadily instead. Macadamias need considerably more force than a hazelnut – a sturdy nutcracker with good leverage makes all the difference here.
Care and Cleaning
Rinse and dry it, and give the hinge a light oiling now and then to keep it moving freely. Store it somewhere dry and it'll stay looking good for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you crack nuts without destroying the kernel? Position it along the seam and build up pressure gradually.
Which nuts work well? Everything from hazelnuts to Brazil nuts – even the toughest shells.
Does it work on crab claws? Yes, with a gentle touch they open just as easily.
How do I look after it? Rinse it, dry it and oil the hinge from time to time.
Why do fresh nuts taste better? Freshly cracked nuts have more flavour and are less likely to taste rancid.
Is it dishwasher-safe? Metal models usually are – though washing by hand keeps the hinge moving more freely.
What about really tough nuts? A sturdy nutcracker with a long lever gives you more force to work with.
How do I keep the mess to a minimum? Keep a bowl underneath to catch the shells. Find more in our kitchen accessories collection.
