Green boiled peanuts are the official state snack of South Carolina.
Boiled peanuts are a flavorful snack popular across the deep South of the United States. Although no one is really sure when this Southern culinary tradition started, it may date back to the Civil War. The Confederate army, for example, often faced food shortages, and boiled peanuts provided an important source of nutrients. While boiled peanuts can be difficult to open and messy to eat, most enthusiasts believe that they are worth the effort.
Instructions
1. Purchase only green or raw peanuts in the shell when making boiled peanuts. While you can use any type of peanut, most buyers choose the Virginia and Valencia varieties because they have large seeds and the best flavor. Green peanuts are readily available for purchase between May and November in the Southern United States.
2. Wash 5 lbs. of peanuts thoroughly in cool running water. Allow them to soak in cool water for approximately half an hour. While the peanuts are soaking, add 5 gallons of water to a large saucepan or stock pot. Mix 5 cups of salt in the water to create a brine. You can adjust the amounts by using an approximate 1:1:1 ratio. For every pound of peanuts, use approximately 1 gallon of water and a cup of salt. For example, if you are boiling 3 pounds of peanuts, boil them in 3 gallons of water and 3 cups of salt. You can add more or less salt, according to your taste.
3. Add the peanuts to the brine and bring the mixture to a boil. Make sure that the peanuts are completely submerged by at least 2 inches of water. Add more water if necessary. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot and boil the peanuts on high between two and seven hours, adding additional water when needed in order to make sure that the peanuts stay below the water line. Cooking time will vary depending upon the amount, the type of peanuts and the age of the nuts.
4. Taste the peanuts frequently for desired flavor and texture. They should have a bean or pea-like texture when thoroughly cooked. Some people prefer their peanuts firm and crunchy, while others enjoy them with a softer consistency.
5. When the peanuts are thoroughly cooked, remove them from the stove and drain them in a colander. You can place them in a large serving bowl and eat them immediately, or refrigerate them and eat them cold.
Tags: boiled peanuts, cups salt, gallons water, mixture boil, peanuts thoroughly