BOILED PEANUTS

It’s one of those things you either love or hate! My family LOVES them! As I was making these, our daughter came in the front door and before she even closed the door she exclaimed, “I smell boiled peanuts!!” Before you panic, it’s not a bad smell, just one that is easily recognized.

Recently, I stopped by a local farmer’s market and they had green peanuts. There was another gentleman filling up his bag with them. He said this particular market had the best anywhere around, so I HAD to have some for myself. If I ever see him again, I’ll tell him I agree! These were probably the best I’ve ever had…and I’ve had plenty!

INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds GREEN peanuts (not raw…those are for roasting)
1/4 cup sea salt
water

INSTRUCTIONS:
Place the peanuts into a large pot and cover with water by about two inches. Add the salt and stir. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 2-3 hours until the nuts are tender. Keep an eye on them because you will need to add more water as they cook. Check them after an hour or so and if you feel they need more salt, add it.

These are definitely one of those “southern” things but one you should try. They make terrific snacks, are great while watching movies or sitting around the table playing board games, even watching ball games.

If you want to spice them up, try adding a package of crab and shrimp boil, a few hot peppers, and a clove or two of garlic. WOW! Personally, I prefer the plain ones but those are the ones I grew up eating.

What are some of your favorite snacks?