How to Prepare Roasted Peanuts

Roast peanuts in or out of the shell based on your preference.

No matter the occasion, from baseball games to holiday parties, roasted peanuts are a flavorful snack that attendees can devour by the handful. This simple to eat finger food compliments other party favorites, such as caramel corn or chocolate candies, in a snack mix or can be flavored with spices and eaten alone. You can replace expensive, store-bought roasted peanuts with the fresh, homemade version.

Things You'll Need

• Raw in-shell or shelled Virginia or Valencia peanuts
• Colander or salad spinner
• Cold water
• Paper towels
• Bowls
• Spices
• Peanut oil
• Spatula
• Baking sheet
• Sealed container (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Place raw in-shell or shelled Virginia or Valencia peanuts in a colander or salad spinner and wash them using cold water to remove dirt. Drain the water and pour the peanuts onto paper towels. Pat the peanuts dry with the paper towels.

2. Place the peanuts in a bowl and season them with desired spices such as salt and pepper. Toss the peanuts in peanut oil with a spatula, coating all sides.

3. Transfer the peanuts onto a baking sheet and spread them out so they do not overlap. Place the peanuts in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating the baking sheet every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.

4. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and pour the roasted peanuts into a bowl to cool for about five minutes. The peanuts will continue to cook as they cool and will form a crunchy texture and rich flavor. Eat right away or store peanuts in a sealed container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Tips & Warnings

• Roast shelled peanuts in an oil-coated saucepan for about five minutes, tossing the peanuts in spices while cooking, for a faster method.

• Place shelled peanuts in a microwave-safe dish, cover them with butter and roast in the microwave for 10 to 12 minutes. Toss the peanuts every two minutes.

References

• Georgia Peanut Commission: Roasting Peanuts
• Food Network: Alton Brown's Roasted Peanuts