Cajun Boiled Peanuts
If you’re craving a snack that’s bold, salty, and packed with Southern charm, these Cajun boiled peanuts are the answer. Slowly simmered with Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, and garlic, they become tender, flavorful bites that are hard to stop eating. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or lazy afternoons, this recipe can be made in a large stockpot, Dutch oven, Instant Pot, or even a slow cooker. With every bite, you’ll taste layers of spice and smoky depth.
While raw peanuts are traditional for boiled peanuts, you can experiment with roasted peanuts if you prefer. Keep in mind that roasted peanuts may have a different texture and flavor compared to raw peanuts.
Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the boiled peanuts by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning and chili powder used in the recipe. Add more or less according to your taste preferences.
Yes, you can prepare Cajun boiled peanuts in advance for a party or gathering. Simply follow the recipe instructions, allow the boiled peanuts to cool completely, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat them before serving or enjoy them cold.
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Yes, you can make Cajun boiled peanuts in a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking method. Simply combine the raw peanuts, seasoning, and water in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or until the peanuts are tender. Adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
– Allow the boiled peanuts to cool completely at room temperature before storing them.
– Place the cooled boiled peanuts in an airtight container. A resealable plastic or glass container works well for this purpose.
– Transfer the airtight container of boiled peanuts to the refrigerator. Stored properly, boiled peanuts can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Raw peanuts in shells are traditional for boiled peanuts, but green peanuts can also be used for a fresher flavor. The shells help to retain moisture during the boiling process, resulting in tender and flavorful peanuts.
If using raw peanuts, consider soaking them in water overnight before boiling. This can help reduce the cooking time and ensure even cooking.
Maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil to prevent the peanuts from becoming mushy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Cajun boiled peanuts are best enjoyed hot or warm. Serve them straight from the pot for maximum flavor and freshness.
Ingredient Notes
- Raw peanuts in shells – The base of this recipe; they soak up all the flavors while cooking.
- Salt – Balances the spices and enhances the peanut flavor.
- Cajun seasoning – Provides a spicy, savory punch that defines Cajun boiled peanuts.
- Chili powder – Adds earthy heat and complexity.
- Garlic powder – Or granulated garlic for a bolder taste, it adds savory depth.
- Water – Enough to cover the peanuts fully, ensuring even cooking.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – Kick up the spice level if you want an extra punch.
Cajun Boiled Peanuts
- Start by rinsing the raw peanuts in cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris. In a large pot, add the rinsed peanuts and the spices and stir, cover with water, ensuring there’s enough water to fully submerge the peanuts.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the peanuts simmer for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
After about 3 hours, start checking the peanuts for doneness. They should be soft and tender. If they’re still too firm, continue simmering. - Once the peanuts are cooked to your desired tenderness, adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, Cajun seasoning, or chili powder according to your preference.
- Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the boiled peanuts to serving bowls sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired. Serve hot as a delicious and flavorful snack or appetizer.
Cajun Boiled Peanuts
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds raw peanuts in shells
- 3 tablespoons salt
- 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 + quarts water or enough to cover the peanuts.
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the raw peanuts in cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris.
- In a large pot, add the rinsed peanuts and the spices and stir, cover with water, ensuring there’s enough water to fully submerge the peanuts.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the peanuts simmer for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- After about 3 hours, start checking the peanuts for doneness. They should be soft and tender. If they’re still too firm, continue simmering.
- Once the peanuts are cooked to your desired tenderness, adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, Cajun seasoning, or chili powder according to your preference.
- Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the boiled peanuts to serving bowls sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired. Serve hot as a delicious and flavorful snack or appetizer.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer: Family Fresh Meals is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
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