Making Spicy Boiled Peanuts

Meliha Gojak

Spicy boiled peanuts piping hot from the kettle and sold along the roadside are a true Southern tradition. Slowly simmered for hours in salt water and spices, the moist and flavorful peanuts are a delight to the taste buds. Spicy boiled peanuts are easy to make, nutritious and perfect for cookouts, parties or anytime you want a simple snack that's good for you, too.

Things You'll Need

• Raw Peanuts (4 lbs) Cajun Spice Jalapeño Peppers Kosher Salt Hot Sauce/Tabasco Large Kettle or Pot with lid

Instructions

1. Prepare the shelled raw peanuts by rinsing them in cold water, several times if necessary, to remove dirt and debris. Spread peanuts on a baking sheet to sort through and remove any empty shells or damaged peanuts.

2. To add the spicy flavor, use 2 tablespoons of Cajun spice along with a small can or jar of Jalapeño peppers and the juice. Two regular sized fresh Jalapeños sliced and diced can be used instead of processed peppers. One-half cup of hot sauce or Tabasco sauce can also be used instead of Jalapeños.

3. Fill a large pot with 5 to 6 quarts of water. Add 5 to 6 tablespoons of salt, desired spices and clean raw peanuts. Bring to a fast boil, stir the peanuts, and reduce heat to simmer. Cover with a tight fitting lid and allow the peanuts to cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. When fully cooked, the peanuts should be soft but not mushy. If the peanuts are still crunchy, allow them to simmer a little longer.

4. Check the water level throughout the cooking time keeping enough water in the pot to cover the peanuts covered while they simmer. If the water is allowed to become too low it can cause the peanuts to scorch or burn. Add water, as needed, along with extra salt and spices to adjust for the additional water.

5. Sample the flavor of the peanuts after an hour and adjust the flavor by adding more salt or spices to enhance the flavor, if needed, or add more water if the peanuts taste too salty or are too spicy.

6. When the peanuts have finished cooking, remove the pot from the heat and let the peanuts soak in the salt/seasoned water for at least a half an hour to absorb the juice.
   Drain the cooked peanuts using a colander or remove the peanuts from the pot using a slatted spoon. Place them in a bowl or container and they're ready to serve. Boiled peanuts can be eaten hot or cold.

Tips & Warnings

• Cooking times can vary with different stoves. To ensure the peanuts are not being over-cooked, remove a peanut from its shell and check its consistency. Fully cooked peanuts should be tender. Adjust the amount of spice and salt according to individual taste preferences. Store uneaten peanuts in the refrigerator.

• When shelling hot peanuts, be careful of the hot juice inside when opening up the peanut shell.