stir-fried peanuts with salt

How to Make Salted Peanuts: A Simple Guide

Salted peanuts are a beloved snack, crispy, savory, and easy to make at home. Here’s a basic guide to perfecting them.

Ingredients: Raw peanuts (200g), fine salt (2 tbsp), water (enough to cover peanuts).

Steps:

1. Soak the Peanuts: Rinse raw peanuts, then soak in water for 30 minutes. This helps them absorb salt evenly and cook faster. Drain well after soaking.

2. Boil with Salt: Transfer peanuts to a pot, add water to cover, and stir in salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes until slightly tender. Turn off the heat, but let peanuts steep in the saltwater for another 15 minutes for extra flavor.

3. Drain and Dry: Drain the peanuts thoroughly. Spread them on a kitchen towel or baking sheet and air-dry for at least 1 hour, or pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

4. Pan-Fry or Roast: For a crispy texture, pan-fry: Heat a wok or skillet over medium-low heat, add peanuts, and stir constantly for 10–15 minutes until golden and fragrant. For oven-roasting: Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway.

5. Cool and Store: Let peanuts cool completely—they will crisp up as they cool. Store in an airtight container to stay fresh for weeks.

Tips: For spicier peanuts, add a pinch of chili powder or cumin during pan-frying. Adjust salt to taste, and ensure peanuts are fully dry before cooking to avoid sogginess. Enjoy this homemade snack anytime!