Vegan Roasted Peanuts
Crunchy, golden brown peanuts roasted to perfection with a hint of salt and spice. This simple Indian-style snack is ready in minutes and makes for a perfect tea-time companion or a healthy munching option any time of day.
For 4 servings
- prep
Get the peanuts ready.
Measure out 200g of raw shelled peanuts. Pick through and discard any shriveled or discolored ones. No need to remove the skin unless you prefer them without.
- roast · ~6 min
Dry roast the peanuts.
1.Place a heavy-bottomed kadai or pan over low heat. Add the peanuts and spread them in a single layer.2.Dry roast, stirring continuously, for 5 to 6 minutes until the skins start to crackle and the peanuts release a nutty aroma.3.Check one peanut by pressing it between your fingers — the skin should slip off easily.TIPKeep the heat low and stir constantly. Peanuts burn quickly from the inside out. - roast · ~4 min
Add oil and spices.
1.Drizzle 1 teaspoon of oil over the peanuts and toss well to coat.2.Sprinkle a pinch each of salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.3.Continue roasting for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring non-stop, until the peanuts turn a shade darker and the spices are fragrant.TIPAdding the oil after the initial dry roast helps the spices stick without making the peanuts greasy. - rest
Cool completely before serving.
1.Transfer the roasted peanuts to a wide plate and spread them out in a single layer.2.Let them cool at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes — they crisp up as they cool.TIPDon't pile them up hot or they'll steam and lose their crunch.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Roast the peanuts over low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning, as they scorch from the inside out.
- 2The skins should slip off easily when pressed — that's your cue they're dry-roasted enough.
- 3Add oil and spices after the initial dry roast so the seasoning clings without making the peanuts greasy.
- 4Always spread hot peanuts in a single layer on a plate; piling them traps steam and ruins the crunch.
- 5Store cooled roasted peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy garlic
Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder along with the chili powder for a pungent, savory kick that pairs great with drinks.
herb coatedHerb-coated
Toss the hot roasted peanuts with 1 teaspoon of dried mint or chaat masala for a refreshing, tangy twist.
sweet & spicySweet & spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar or jaggery powder with the spices for a caramelized sweet-heat flavor.
oil freeOil-free
Skip the oil and simply increase the dry-roasting time by 2 minutes — the peanuts are still crunchy and the spices stick to the natural oils of the skin.
smoky chipotleSmoky chipotle
Replace red chili powder with 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder for a smoky, mild heat that's perfect for a fusion snack.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant Protein
Peanuts provide a solid dose of plant-based protein, making this snack great for muscle repair and sustained energy.
Good Source of Healthy Fats
The natural oils in peanuts offer heart-friendly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
High in Vitamin E
Peanuts contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health and immune function.
Mineral Boost
This snack delivers magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which help with bone strength and nerve function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, blanched peanuts work fine, but they roast faster — reduce the dry-roasting time by 1-2 minutes and watch closely to avoid burning.
