Craving a snack that's not just delicious, but a true Southern culinary experience? Look no further than these mind-blowing Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts! Imagine a treat that's packed with bold, fiery flavors that dance on your tongue, transforming ordinary peanuts into an addictive delicacy that'll have you coming back for more. This isn't just a recipe; it's a journey into the heart of Southern cuisine that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Louisiana.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw peanuts
- 6 cups water
- 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp salt
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the raw peanuts under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Drain well.
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed peanuts, 6 cups of water, 1/4 cup of Cajun seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of salt. Stir the mixture to ensure the peanuts are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
- Allow the peanuts to simmer for about 2 hours. Check the peanuts occasionally and stir to ensure they are cooking evenly. If the water level gets too low, add more water as needed to keep the peanuts submerged.
- After 2 hours, taste a peanut to check for doneness. The peanuts should be tender and flavorful. If they are still too firm for your liking, continue to simmer, checking every 15 minutes until they reach your desired texture.
- Once the peanuts are cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the peanuts to absorb more flavor from the seasoning.
- After the resting period, drain the peanuts if desired, or serve them in their cooking liquid for extra flavor. Enjoy your spicy Cajun boiled peanuts warm or at room temperature!
Tips
- Choose Fresh, Raw Peanuts: Always start with fresh, raw peanuts for the best texture and absorption of flavors.
- Don't Rush the Process: Low and slow is the key to tender, flavor-packed peanuts. Patience is crucial in achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your heat tolerance. More seasoning means more kick!
- Keep an Eye on Liquid Levels: Always ensure the peanuts are submerged in liquid during cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Let Them Rest: The 30-minute resting period after cooking is crucial for allowing the peanuts to soak up maximum flavor.
- Storage Tip: These peanuts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead snack.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm for the best flavor, and have plenty of napkins on hand - this is a deliciously messy snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
