What Are Hot Peanuts?
Peanuts that have been seasoned and cooked with hot spices are called hot or spicy peanuts. These nuts are a favorite snack in Louisiana, Mississippi and other states in the southern U.S. The Japanese and Mexican cultures also enjoy eating this type of snack. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Types
-
Hot peanuts include the chili-spiced, chili-lime, spicy-Cajun and wasabi varieties. Chili-spiced peanuts originated as a traditional bar snack in the Mexican state of Oaxaca and have been enjoyed for many centuries. The spicy-Cajun peanuts are a traditional Southern snack and became popular among Confederate soldiers during the Civil War because of their affordability and ease of cooking.
Wasabi peanuts are made with Japanese horseradish and are a different type of hot. Instead of burning the tongue or mouth, the vapors affect the sinuses. They are eaten in the Japanese culture as a crunchy snack.
Nutrition
-
Hot peanuts have a relatively large amount of protein in each serving and low amounts of saturated fat. According to CalorieKing.com, wasabi peanuts have 5.3 g of protein and 1.6 g of saturated fat per ounce. Protein is essential in helping the body build muscle and function efficiently. Eating peanuts can be a way to obtain nutrients without saturated fats.
-
Cost
-
It is more affordable to make hot peanuts at home. Then you can roast or boil them according to your preference. Costs vary, but as of 2011, Planters Heat Peanuts cost about $10.50 for 18 packages of 1.75 oz. peanuts.
Considerations
-
People with allergies to any of the ingredients used to make hot peanuts should avoid this snack. These ingredients include chili powder, red pepper, garlic salt or vegetable oil. Also avoid hot peanuts if you have ever had a rash or difficulty breathing while eating any food containing nuts.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Viewstock/Photodisc/Getty Images