World Flavors Cookbook

Southern Boiled Peanuts

Green (raw) peanuts boiled for hours in heavily salted water until soft and briny — the roadside snack of the Deep South sold from crock pots at gas stations and farm stands.

Cuisine: United States

Ingredients

• 1kg raw (green) peanuts in the shell
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• Water to cover by 2 inches
• Optional: 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning or Old Bay for spicy version

Instructions

1. Rinse peanuts well. Place in a large pot.
2. Add salt (and Cajun seasoning if desired).
3. Cover with water by at least 2 inches.
4. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer.
5. Cook 4-8 hours, adding water as needed to keep peanuts submerged.
6. Test after 4 hours — they should be soft and salty throughout.
7. Let sit in brine 1 hour off heat for extra salt penetration.
8. Drain and serve warm. Store leftovers refrigerated.