Boiled Peanuts
A classic Southern American snack, these peanuts are boiled in a salty, savory brine until perfectly tender. An addictive, easy-to-make treat perfect for game days, road trips, or lazy afternoons.
For 10 servings
7 steps. 240 minutes total.
- 1
Rinse the green peanuts thoroughly under cold running water
- a.Discard any debris or peanuts that float to the surface.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed peanuts, water, and kosher salt. If using, add the red pepper flakes. The water should cover the peanuts by at least 2 inches. Stir well to dissolve the salt.
- 3
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat
- a.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and maintain a steady, gentle simmer.
- 4
Simmer for 3 to 4 hours, or until the peanuts reach your desired tenderness
- a.The peanuts will float, so it's helpful to place a heatproof plate on top of them to keep them submerged. Check the water level every hour and add more hot water as needed to keep them covered.
- 5
After 3 hours, begin testing for doneness
- a.Carefully remove a peanut, let it cool slightly, and crack it open. The shell should be soft and the kernel inside should be tender, similar to a cooked bean, with no crunch.
- 6
Once the peanuts are tender, turn off the heat
- a.For the best flavor, allow the peanuts to sit in the hot brine for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This allows them to absorb more of the salty, savory flavor.
- 7
Serve warm using a slotted spoon
- a.Store any leftovers in an airtight container with their brine in the refrigerator.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic taste, use 'green' peanuts, which are freshly harvested and have not been dried. If you can only find raw dried peanuts, you must soak them in water for 8-12 hours before boiling, and the cooking time will increase significantly to 6-8 hours.
- 2The brine should taste very salty, like seawater. This is necessary for the flavor to penetrate the shells and season the peanuts properly.
- 3To keep the peanuts from floating, place a smaller, heat-safe lid or plate directly on top of them inside the pot. This ensures they cook evenly.
- 4For a hands-off approach, you can make boiled peanuts in a slow cooker. Cook on high for 6-8 hours or on low for 10-12 hours.
- 5Leftover boiled peanuts can be stored in their brine in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days. They are delicious eaten cold or reheated.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cajun Style
Add 2 tablespoons of Cajun or Creole seasoning, 2 bay leaves, and a halved lemon to the pot for a zesty, Louisiana-inspired flavor.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika or 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke into the brine for a deep, smoky taste.
Aromatic SpiceAromatic Spice
Add a few star anise pods and a cinnamon stick to the boiling water for a unique, subtly sweet and spiced version.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Peanuts are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle growth.
Source of Healthy Fats
Boiled peanuts contain high levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
High in Dietary Fiber
The fiber in boiled peanuts aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness to help with weight management, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Packed with Antioxidants
The boiling process increases the bioavailability of certain antioxidants like resveratrol found in peanuts. These compounds help protect the body against oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Boiled peanuts can be a healthy snack in moderation. They are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy monounsaturated fats. However, they are typically very high in sodium due to the salty brine, so they should be consumed mindfully, especially by those monitoring their blood pressure.