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Boiled Peanuts

A quintessential Southern roadside snack: raw peanuts slow-simmered in heavily salted water until tender, briny, and irresistibly soft. Plan ahead: peanuts need 3-4 hours of simmering time.

220 minEasyServes 8200 cal/serving

Southern AmericanAppetizerStovetopVeganHigh FiberHalal-friendlyGluten-FreeDairy-FreeEgg-FreeSoy-FreeSesame-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeNightshade-FreeCorn-Free

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs raw peanuts in the shell (green peanuts if available), rinsed
  • 12 cups water
  • 1/3 cup kosher salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place 2 lbs rinsed raw peanuts in the shell (green peanuts if available) in a large pot. Add 12 cups water and 1/3 cup kosher salt. The water should cover the peanuts by at least 2 inches; add more water if needed.

  2. 2

    Place a heavy lid or a plate directly on top of the peanuts to keep them submerged. Bring to a boil over high heat.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook uncovered (or with the lid slightly ajar) for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally and adding more water as needed to keep the peanuts submerged.

  4. 4

    Begin tasting for doneness around the 3-hour mark. The peanuts are ready when the shells are soft enough to squish easily and the peanut inside is tender, not crunchy.

  5. 5

    Remove from heat. Let the peanuts soak in the salty brine for at least 30 minutes before draining - they will absorb more salt and flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Questions

Can I make Boiled Peanuts ahead?

Yes, it takes well to being made ahead. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and eat them within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I halve or double Boiled Peanuts?

Yes. As written it serves 8. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. When doubling on the stovetop, use your widest pan or work in two batches so the food sears instead of steaming.

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