cajun boiled peanut recipe

cajun boiled peanut recipe

The Best cajun boiled peanut recipe

I’ve been a huge fan of Cajun boiled peanuts for years, and my family loves them just as much as I do. This recipe is a staple in our household, and we always have it on hand for a quick snack or as part of our meal. The combination of the rich, savory flavor of the peanuts, the crunch of the shells, and the tangy kick from the spices is absolutely irresistible.

I’ve tried making boiled peanuts with various seasonings and spices over the years, but this recipe is hands down my favorite. The key to making great boiled peanuts is to use high-quality peanuts that are fresh and not too old. You want them to be nice and plump, so they’ll retain their texture after being boiled.

I like to use a mix of salted and unsalted peanuts for added depth of flavor. Once you’ve got your peanuts, it’s time to start boiling them in a big pot with some water and spices. The traditional method involves using a large cast-iron pot or a big stockpot on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.

You’ll need to add some liquid to cover the peanuts completely, along with some aromatics like onions, garlic, and bay leaves. Some people like to add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The longer you boil them, the more flavorful they’ll become.

I usually let mine boil for at least an hour or until they’re nice and tender. Once they’re done, you can drain them and let them cool before serving. They’re perfect as a snack on their own or as part of a larger meal.

My kids love them as part of their lunch or as an after-school snack. We also like to serve them at family gatherings or when we have company over. This recipe makes about 2 pounds of boiled peanuts, which will last us for several days depending on how often we eat them.

Cajun Boiled Peanuts

Cajun Boiled Peanuts

4.9 from 1706 votes

Cajun boiled peanuts are a classic Southern snack, featuring green peanuts simmered in a spicy, salty brine until tender and flavorful. This recipe delivers a bold, aromatic boil with a kick of heat from cayenne and red pepper flakes.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time3 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 40 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Peanuts

2 pounds raw green peanuts in shell
1/2 cup kosher salt
3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
2 bay leaves
6 cloves garlic, smashed
1 onion, quartered
Water to cover

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the raw green peanuts thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt.
2Discard any peanuts that are moldy or have cracked shells.
3Place the peanuts in a large stockpot and add enough water to cover them by at least 2 inches.
4Stir in the kosher salt, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, smashed garlic, and quartered onion until the salt dissolves.
5Bring the pot to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a steady simmer.
6Cover the pot and cook for 3 to 3.
5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peanuts are tender and have a soft, almost mushy texture when bitten.
7Turn off the heat and let the peanuts cool in the brine for at least 30 minutes to absorb more flavor.
8Drain the peanuts in a colander and serve warm or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot (at least 8 quarts)
Colander
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1500mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

For a milder version, reduce cayenne and red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon each. Store leftover boiled peanuts in the brine in the refrigerator for up to a week; reheat gently before serving.

Watch Video Of How Cajun Boiled Peanuts Works

This Cajun boiled peanut recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick snack at home.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time – just toss all your ingredients into a pot or slow cooker and let it do its magic!

My family loves these nuts so much that we often make double batches so we can have some on hand for later.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Boiled Peanuts

Q: What kind of peanuts are best for boiling?

I like to use Virginia-style peanuts for boiling because they have a higher oil content than other varieties, which helps keep them moist during the boiling process.

Q: Can I make boiled peanuts in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make boiled peanuts in a pressure cooker! In fact, it’s one of the best ways to cook them quickly and easily.

Q: How long do boiled peanuts keep in the fridge?

Boiled peanuts will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to my boiled peanut recipe?

Sure! Some people like to add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

Q: Do boiled peanuts have any health benefits?

Yes! Boiled peanuts are high in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious snack option.

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