Soaking

I soak nuts for some recipes in this book.

cashews

Soak cashews in plenty of water for pies overnight, for sauces for 2 hours. Rinse well after soaking.

almonds

Soak almonds overnight. After 16 h you will be able to peel the skin off easily if desired.

sunflower seeds

Soak sunflower seeds for 2 hours, then rinse well.

Macadamia

Soaking macadamia nuts in my experience does not make the nut softer.