Corn twists are typically made through a process involving mixing, extruding, heating, and cutting cornmeal.
The creation of corn twists begins by combining cornmeal with water. This mixture is then fed into a machine where it is extruded, or pushed out, to form the initial shape of the snack.
The Extrusion Process
During extrusion, the mixture is subjected to pressure and heat. This heat causes the water within the mixture to turn into steam. The steam rapidly expands, causing the snack to puff up as it emerges from the machine.
Following the extrusion and puffing process, a rotating knife cuts the continuous shape into individual, bite-sized pieces.
Here's a simple breakdown of the steps:
- Mixing: Cornmeal is mixed with water.
- Extrusion: The mixture is pushed through a machine to form the shape.
- Puffing: Pressure and heat cause the water to steam, making the snack puff up.
- Cutting: A rotating knife cuts the snack into pieces.
This method is common for creating many types of puffed corn snacks, resulting in their light and airy texture.
