What is Brazil nut?

A large nut with a very hard shell, cultivated in Brazil and Paraguay. They tend to be expensive because commercial supplies are derived entirely from wild trees. They're tough nuts to crack so buy shelled brazils if you can.

The creamy, white kernel is very nutritious with a high fat content. Brazil nuts can be eaten raw or used in cooking. Whole, they're used in confectionery and are good for decorating fruitcakes or larger cakes because of their nice shape and size.

Roughly ground, they make good toppings for desserts and add crunch to rice or vegetable dishes. Ground brazil nuts can be stirred into cakes and cheesecake bases.