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boiled peanuts recipe homemade traditional southern green raw

Boiled Peanuts

By Kimberly Killebrew
A delicacy of the South and a symbol of Southern hospitality, boiled peanuts is a unique and tasty snack that is meant to be enjoyed with friends and family!
5 from 66 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 pounds raw or green peanuts in the shell (NOT roasted peanuts)
  • 4 quarts water
  • 1/2 cup kosher or sea salt (adjust according to taste; 1/2 cup is typical)
  • 3 tablespoons seasoning of choice (optional) (see blog post for lots of delicious ideas!)

Instructions
 

  • Wash the peanuts to remove any debris, discarding any bad peanuts while you're at it.  If you're using green peanuts, wash them 3 times, changing the water between washes.   If you're using raw peanuts you only need to wash them once.  
  • Place the peanuts in a large pot with the water and salt and stir to combine.  Stir in any additional seasonings if using.  Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the peanuts simmer.  I weigh down the peanuts with a large dinner plate to ensure they remain immersed under water.  Allow the peanuts to simmer for about 2 to 4 hours for green peanuts or 5-8 hours for raw peanuts, depending on the desired tenderness.  Some people let them simmer all day.  Check the peanuts occasionally for desired doneness.  Some people prefer them very soft, almost mushy, while others like them firmer.  Check the water level periodically and add more water as needed.
    Once the peanuts have achieved their desired degree of doneness, remove the pot from the heat and let the peanuts cool in the cooking liquid.  Once cooled, drain the peanuts. 
    Boiled peanuts can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or cold.  You can reheat them in the microwave if you prefer them warm. To eat, crack open the shells, eat the nuts inside, and discard the shells. 
    They will store in the fridge for up to a week.  

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 20gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gPotassium: 566mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gCalcium: 1mgIron: 1mg
Course Snack
Cuisine American, Southern
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