How to Boil Peanuts in the Shell

Across the Southern region of the United States, boiled peanuts in the shell are an immensely popular snack. Roadside vendors commonly sell paper bags of boiled peanuts at roadside stands during summer months to hungry passersby. Boiled peanuts are best served warm so it is not uncommon to see large pots of boiling peanuts at the stands doting the sides of the roads of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. Though large quantities of these salty nuts be best boiled outdoors, anyone can boil peanuts in the shell in their own kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Peanuts in the shell Stock pot Water Salt Stove

Instructions

1. Place two pounds of peanuts still in the shell in a large stock pot.

2. Add 1 cup of salt to the stock pot containing the peanuts.

3. Pour enough water into the stock pot to cover all of the peanuts and the salt.

4. Place the stockpot on the stove over a high flame and bring it to a boil.

5. Reduce the heat to maintain a rolling simmer.

6. Simmer the peanuts for one to three hours.

7. Remove the stock pot from the stove and drain the peanuts.

8. Serve the boiled peanuts warm.

Tips & Warnings

• To determine when the boiled peanuts are done, remove one peanut from the pot and remove the shell. A boiled peanut should be soft.

• Boiled peanuts have a short shelf life. Wrap uneaten peanuts in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated or frozen.