These Cajun Boiled Peanuts are bursting with zesty flavor and Southern charm. These savory treats are perfect for cookouts, game nights, picnics, or anytime cravings strike. They are so easy to make and customize to suit your taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Southern tradition: Boiled peanuts are a beloved snack in many of the Southern states like Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama. For people who grew up in these areas or have spent time there, you guys know what time it is! These take me back to my childhood.
- Unique flavor: These have a distinct taste and texture that sets them apart from other types of peanuts. The boiling process softens the peanuts and allows them to absorb flavors from any seasonings added to the water. Everyone will love them.
- Easy to Customize: These can be seasoned in so many different ways including savory, sweet, or spicy.
- Social Gatherings: Bring these to picnics, barbecues, or sporting events. Friends and family are sure to love them.
What Type of Peanuts to Use
It’s best to use raw, green or “raw” peanuts. These are peanuts that have not been roasted or otherwise processed. Raw peanuts are typically larger and have a higher moisture content compared to roasted peanuts, which makes them great for boiling.
You can usually find raw peanuts in the produce section of many grocery stores, especially in regions where boiled peanuts are popular. I am able to find them at my standard, local neighborhood store. If raw peanuts are not readily available, you may also find them labeled as “green peanuts” during their harvesting season.
I don’t recommend you use roasted peanuts or peanuts that are already salted or flavored. It defeats the purpose. You’re looking to make your own by using this recipe! Roasted nuts won’t absorb flavors as well during the boiling process and they will not achieve the desired soft texture.
Can You Use Peanuts Without the Shells
Yes, you can use them without the shells. You can follow the same instructions, but adjust the cook time accordingly. Test the texture of the peanuts and ensure they are soft. They made need half of the noted cook time, maybe a little longer.
How They Taste
For flavor, they will take on the taste of whatever spices used to boil them. If you know you like salty peanuts be sure to add enough. Season to taste by initially tasting the seasoned boiled water.
They have a soft and slightly chewy texture due to the boiling process. The taste is nutty and savory, with a subtle sweetness from the peanuts themselves.
What Type of Spices to Use
I love to use my Homemade Cajun Seasoning. You can also use a store-bought version if you wish.
- Smoked seasonings: Smoked paprika (I already recommend this in the recipe), smoked salt, or liquid smoke can impart a delicious smoky flavor.
- Old Bay seasoning: A popular seasoning blend often used with seafood, Old Bay adds a unique flavor profile with its mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other spices.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic or garlic powder will work great, especially if you love garlic
- Soy Sauce
- Hot Sauce
- Vinegar: A splash of vinegar can add a tangy flavor. White vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or rice vinegar can all work well.
- Worcestershire sauce
- Lemon or lime juice: Fresh citrus juice can brighten up the flavor.
- Brown sugar or honey: For a touch of sweetness, you can add brown sugar or honey to the boiling water to create a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves will add herbal savory notes of flavor.
How to Make Cajun Boiled Peanuts
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Rinse the raw peanuts.
- Place the peanuts in a large pot and cover them with water.
- Add the spices to the pot and stir.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Place the lid on the pot.
- Simmer.
Cook Time/How Long to Cook
The total cooking time will vary based on the type of peanuts and their freshness. Generally, it will take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to cook. Once they’ve been boiling for a while, start checking them periodically for doneness.
How to Tell When They are Done
- Texture: The peanuts should be soft and tender when they’re done. You can test this by removing a peanut from the pot, allowing it to cool slightly, and then squeezing it between your fingers. If it feels soft and yields easily, they’re likely done. If it still feels too firm or crunchy, they need more time.
- Taste: Taste a peanut to check. It should be fully cooked and flavorful, with the seasoning infused throughout. If they taste undercooked or bland, they need more time.
- Color: They will usually turn a darker shade when they’re fully cooked. Keep an eye on the color of the peanuts as they cook, and when they reach a darker shade, they’re likely done.
The Best Way to Store Them
If you know you are going to want to enjoy some of the peanuts later, save that leftover broth (the seasoned water) they were cooked in. This will have so much flavor! The liquid will help keep the peanuts moist and flavorful.
You can also store them dry, tightly covered, and sealed. Store the container of boiled peanuts in the refrigerator. They can typically last for up to 1 week when refrigerated.
Freezer Tips
Store dry peanuts tightly covered and sealed. They will last for several months in the freezer without significant loss of quality.
Pair With These Recipes
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs
Vinegar Coleslaw Without Mayo
Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
Grilled Peaches (Savory or Sweet)
Cajun Boiled Peanuts
Ingredients
- 24 oz raw peanuts or green peanuts Not roasted
- water
- 1-2 teaspoons Cajun Seasoning I tasted the water repeatedly to adjust to my taste and used 2 teaspoons.
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the raw peanuts under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Place the peanuts in a large pot and cover them with water. Make sure the water level is at least 2 inches above the peanuts as they will absorb some water during boiling.
- Add the spices to the pot and stir. Taste the water and adjust the spices to suit your taste.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Place the lid on the pot.
- Let the peanuts simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. It usually takes mine at least 2 hours for the spices to penetrate and for the peanuts to soften.
- Check the peanuts occasionally while they’re cooking. If the water level drops too low, add more water to keep the peanuts submerged.
- Taste the peanuts occasionally to check for doneness. They should be soft and fully cooked when done.
- Once the peanuts are cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat and drain the peanuts. Serve warm.
Notes
How to Tell When They are Done
- Texture: The peanuts should be soft and tender when they’re done. You can test this by removing a peanut from the pot, allowing it to cool slightly, and then squeezing it between your fingers. If it feels soft and yields easily, they’re likely done. If it still feels too firm or crunchy, they need more time.
- Taste: Taste a peanut to check. It should be fully cooked and flavorful, with the seasoning infused throughout. If they taste undercooked or bland, they need more time.
- Color: They will usually turn a darker shade when they’re fully cooked. Keep an eye on the color of the peanuts as they cook, and when they reach a darker shade, they’re likely done.