Corn Nuts

You may have seen Corn Nuts in little packages at the store and you may have even eaten Corn Nuts before, but Corn Nuts aren't really nuts. Corn Nuts are individual kernels of corn that have been seasoned and toasted until crunchy like a nut. Invented by Albert Holloway in 1936 as an accompaniment to mugs of cold beer served in Taverns, Corn Nuts are sold at grocery and convenience stores across the nation today.

Though originally made from everyday kernels of corn, Corn Nuts are now made from a Cuzco corn hybrid grown in the United States that produces the giant kernels of corn found in every bag. There are six different flavors of Corn Nuts and they are packaged in six different sizes from 0.8 oz to 7oz bags. The flavors consist of Original, Barbecue, Nacho Cheese, Chili Picante, Salsa Jalisco, and Ranch.

A popular snack not just for adults, but kids of all ages, Corn Nuts is easily recognized by their advertising mascot, Winky the Crow and their popular slogan, "Corn Gone Wrong". People still enjoy Corn Nuts as an accompaniment to cold beer and other beverages. Corn Nuts are actually crunchier than most real nuts, but still make a tasty crunchy, salty snack.

You can make your own corn nuts at home by basically deep frying individual kernels of fresh corn. Prepare kernels first by soaking in water in the refrigerator overnight. Drain the corn and take approximately one tablespoon at a time and gently drop kernels into about 3 to 4 inches of hot grease or oil. Use caution when deep frying the kernels as the grease will pop and so will an occasional kernel. When they have turned brown and are crunchy, not chewy, they are done. Turn them out onto newspaper topped with a paper towel to absorb the grease and season with garlic salt, seasoned salt, chili powder, or any other combination of preferred seasoning.