Roasted Peanuts
Crunchy, golden-roasted peanuts with a light seasoning of salt and a whisper of spices. This simple Indian-style snack comes together in under 10 minutes on the stovetop, perfect for chai time or as a quick between-meals nibble.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~1 min
Warm the pan and oil.
Place a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over low-medium heat. Add the oil and let it warm gently for about 30 seconds — just enough to coat the pan.
- fry · ~8 min
Roast the peanuts.
1.Add raw peanuts to the pan in a single layer.2.Stir continuously with a spatula for 6-8 minutes, keeping the heat low-medium.3.Watch for the skins to turn a shade darker and a nutty aroma to fill the kitchen.4.Listen for a faint crackling sound near the end — the peanuts are nearly done.TIPKeep the heat low-medium — high heat scorches the outside before the inside cooks through. - prep · ~1 min
Check for doneness.
Take one peanut out, let it cool for 10 seconds, then taste. It should be crunchy through the center, not raw or soft. If still soft in the middle, roast 1-2 minutes more.
TIPPeanuts continue to cook in residual heat once off the flame, so pull them just as they finish. - mix
Season while hot.
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle salt, red chili powder, and turmeric over the hot peanuts. Toss thoroughly in the pan so the seasoning clings while the peanuts are still warm.
- rest · ~15 min
Cool completely before storing.
Transfer the roasted peanuts to a plate and spread them out in a single layer. Let them cool to room temperature — this locks in the crunch. Store in an airtight container.
TIPDon't cover while warm — trapped steam softens the peanuts.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use skin-on peanuts for extra texture and to prevent burning.
- 2Stir continuously to ensure even roasting and avoid scorching.
- 3Listen for the crackling sound — it signals the peanuts are nearly done.
- 4Season the peanuts while they're hot so spices stick better.
- 5Cool completely in a single layer to keep them crunchy.
- 6Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spiced masala
Add 1/4 tsp each of roasted cumin powder and chaat masala along with the chili powder for a more complex, tangy Indian snack.
garlic & herbGarlic & herb
Toss in 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp dried rosemary after roasting for a savory, Western-style twist.
sweet & spicySweet & spicy
Mix 1 tsp honey or maple syrup with the oil before roasting, then finish with a pinch of cayenne and black pepper for a sticky, fiery-sweet coating.
low oilLow-oil
Dry-roast the peanuts in a non-stick pan without any oil; still season while hot. Works well if you're watching oil intake.
jain optionJain option
Ensure no garlic or onion is used (already compliant). Use white salt and avoid turmeric that may contain starch; stick to salt and red chili only.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Peanuts provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support heart health when eaten in moderation.
Good Plant-Based Protein
A 200g serving delivers a substantial amount of protein, making this snack satisfying and energy-sustaining.
Contains Antioxidants
Turmeric and red chili powder add anti-inflammatory compounds like curcumin and capsaicin, boosting the snack's antioxidant profile.
Mineral-Rich Snack
Peanuts are a natural source of magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, important for bone health and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, blanched peanuts work fine, but skin-on peanuts provide more texture and are less likely to burn during roasting.
