Crispy Pili is a delightful and popular Filipino snack that comes from Pili nuts which are cultivated in the Bicol Region of the Philippines. This satisfying and nutritious treat can be prepared at home with just a few simple steps. Below are the 11 steps to make crispy Pili nuts:

1. Gather ingredients: To make crispy Pili, you will need fresh Pili nuts, water, salt, and oil for frying.

2. Rinse the Pili nuts: Thoroughly wash your fresh Pili nuts under running water to remove any dirt and debris from the nuts.

3. Boil the nuts: Place the washed Pili nuts in a pot of boiling water. Boil them for about 10 minutes to soften their outer shell.

4. Drain and cool: After boiling, drain the water from the pot, and let the nuts cool down for a few minutes.

5. Crack the shells: Use a nutcracker or a hard object such as a hammer to crack open the shells one by one. Be careful not to damage the precious Pili kernel inside.

6. Remove the skin: Gently remove the thin brown skin surrounding each kernel. This is an optional step but will give your crispy Pili a cleaner appearance.

7. Blanch in salted water: Bring another pot of water to a boil, add enough salt to taste, then immerse your cleaned kernels for 3-5 minutes. This will season your kernels and improve their texture before frying.

8. Drain and dry: Drain the blanched kernels on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and pat them dry thoroughly. Make sure there’s no excess moisture on them before proceeding.

9. Heat oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat an ample amount of oil on medium-high heat – enough to submerge your Pili kernels in it.

10. Fry the Pili nuts: Place the dried Pili nuts carefully into the hot oil and fry them for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid burning and ensure even frying.

11. Drain and cool: Once done frying, use a slotted spoon to take out your crispy Pili nuts from the hot oil and let them drain on paper towels or a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or serving.

Enjoy your homemade crispy Pili as a wholesome snack or as a topping on salads, desserts, or even ice cream. With these 11 steps, you can now easily satisfy your craving for this delicious Filipino treat anytime you like.