This video demonstrates how to open and prepare various types of nuts. The chef uses different tools, such as nutcrackers, knives, and hammers, depending on the hardness of the nut's shell. Each nut, like English walnuts, black walnuts, Brazil nuts, and more, has its unique characteristics and preparation methods. The video also mentions some interesting facts about specific nuts, such as acorns, ginkgo nuts, and pistachios.
Sure, here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The speaker is a chef at the Institute of Culinary Education.
2. Various tools are used for cracking nuts, including nutcrackers, garlic press, paring knife, and even a hammer.
3. English walnuts have a tough outer shell and a buttery, slightly bitter flavor, rich in omega-3s.
4. Black walnuts are more bitter and have a harder shell.
5. Brazil nuts have a tough shell and are known for their skin, which can be peeled off.
6. American chestnuts are high in starch and need to be scored before roasting.
7. Pecans are snipped at the ends and cracked with pliers.
8. Hazelnuts need to be roasted to remove the bitter skin.
9. Acorns are boiled to remove tannins, then roasted and used for various dishes.
10. Peanuts can be cracked open by squeezing them with hands.
11. Pili nuts have a white shell and a green inside, are used in Chinese cooking, and are boiled to remove the shell.
12. Ginkgo nuts have a white shell and yellowish-green inside, are boiled to remove the shell, and are believed to be an aphrodisiac.
13. California pistachios can be cracked open by hand or with a free shell.
These facts provide information about various nuts and the methods for opening and preparing them.