Air Fryer Corn Nuts Recipe

Hominy: Dried corn kernels that are used as the base for the corn nuts. They need to be soaked overnight before cooking.

Vegetable oil: Helps to coat the corn kernels, ensuring they become crispy and golden in the air fryer.

Salt: Adds flavor to the corn nuts, making them a savory snack.

To achieve perfectly crispy corn nuts, ensure that the kernels are thoroughly dried after soaking. Excess moisture can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the kernels from becoming fully crispy. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them dry before tossing with vegetable oil and salt.

• hominy or field corn dried corn kernels - Substitute with chickpeas: Chickpeas can be air-fried to a similar crunchy texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative.

• hominy or field corn dried corn kernels - Substitute with popcorn kernels: When air-fried, popcorn kernels can achieve a similar crunchy texture, though they may be smaller in size.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier alternative and can provide a slightly different but pleasant flavor.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a unique flavor and has a high smoke point, making it suitable for air frying.

• salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt can add an extra layer of flavor while still providing the saltiness needed.

• salt - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a smoky flavor along with a bit of saltiness, enhancing the overall taste.

• Allow the corn nuts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Mason jars, resealable plastic bags, or any container with a tight seal work well.
• Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the corn nuts in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
• When ready to eat, let the frozen corn nuts come to room temperature. They should retain their crunch without needing to be reheated.
• If they lose some of their crispiness, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their texture.

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover corn nuts in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they regain their crispiness.

• Use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn nuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until they are warm and crunchy.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave. Spread the corn nuts on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 30-45 seconds, checking halfway through. Note: This method may not retain as much crispiness as the air fryer or oven.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn nuts on the toaster oven tray in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the tray halfway through, until they are crunchy again.

• For an alternative method, use a stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the corn nuts and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until they are warm and crispy.

• Large bowl: Used for soaking the dried corn kernels overnight in water.

• Colander: Essential for draining the soaked corn kernels.

• Paper towels: Necessary for patting the kernels dry after soaking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the kernels with vegetable oil and salt.

• Air fryer: The main appliance used to cook the corn nuts to a crispy, golden perfection.

• Measuring cups: Needed to measure the 2 cups of dried corn kernels.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vegetable oil and salt.

• Spatula: Useful for tossing the kernels in the mixing bowl to ensure even coating.

• Tongs: Handy for shaking the air fryer basket during cooking to ensure even crisping.

• Cooling rack: Ideal for letting the corn nuts cool down before serving.

Use canned hominy: Save time by using canned hominy instead of dried corn kernels. Just drain and pat dry.

Preheat air fryer: Preheat the air fryer while you prepare the kernels to cut down on waiting time.

Batch cooking: Cook in batches if needed, but ensure each batch is in a single layer for even cooking.

Quick seasoning: Mix vegetable oil and salt in a large bowl, then toss the kernels quickly to ensure even coating.

Shake efficiently: Shake the air fryer basket every 5-10 minutes to ensure even cooking without opening the fryer too often.