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Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts

Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts - Great Meal Recipes

As a kid growing up in the South, boiled peanuts were an essential part of our culinary landscape. They were everywhere — at football games, summer fairs, and family gatherings. You could hardly walk through a market without catching a whiff of those warm, salty peanuts simmering away. 
Then came my trusty Instant Pot, revolutionizing the way I prepare them. If you’ve never tasted boiled peanuts, you’re in for a treat. If you have, you know exactly why they are a beloved snack.
In this blog, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about making Instant Pot boiled peanuts. From understanding why you'll love them to crafting the perfect recipe, I've got you covered. So grab your Instant Pot, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds fresh green peanuts: These are raw peanuts in the shell, known for their moisture content and tenderness when boiled.
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar: This adds a nice tang and complexity to the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup coarse kosher salt: The star of the show. Salt adds that classic taste everyone loves.
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed: These are the secret ingredient that enhances the flavor profile.

Method
 

  1. Let’s break it down into easy steps.
Step 1: Prep the Peanuts
  1. First, rinse the fresh green peanuts under cold water. Remove any debris, dirt, or bad peanuts. You want them clean and ready for cooking. After rinsing, place them in your Instant Pot.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
  1. Add the garlic cloves, apple cider vinegar, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Now add enough water to cover the peanuts completely. This is usually around 6-8 cups of water, depending on your Instant Pot size.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
  1. Secure the lid of your Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 60 minutes. When the time is up, allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
  1. After the natural release, carefully release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and check the peanuts. They should be soft and tender to the bite. If they need more time, you can always close the pot back up and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Drain and Enjoy!
  1. Once ready, carefully drain the peanuts in a colander. You might want to allow them to cool slightly, but I personally enjoy them warm! Season with more salt if desired, and they’re ready to be served.

Notes

Here are five additional tips to enhance your boiled peanuts experience:
  • Choose the Right Peanuts: Always opt for fresh green peanuts. Avoid dry peanuts, as they won’t yield the desired texture.
  • Soak for Extra Flavor: If you have extra time, consider soaking the peanuts overnight in salt water. This can help infuse more flavor.
  • Experiment with Spices: Try other spices such as Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, or chili powder for varied taste.
  • Use Stock Instead of Water: Swap the water for chicken or vegetable stock. It adds a rich flavor that elevates your snack.
  • Serve Hot or Cold: While they are traditionally served warm, boiled peanuts can be a fantastic cold snack too. Store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them later.