How to prepare green boiled peanuts

Green Boiled Peanuts Recipe

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds fresh green peanuts (raw, not dried or roasted)

- Water

- Salt (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Rinse the Peanuts:

   Start by rinsing the green peanuts under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. It doesn't hurt to let them soak in fresh water for an hour or so.

2. Prepare the Cooking Pot:

   In a large pot, add the rinsed peanuts and enough water to cover them completely. The water level should be about 2 inches above the peanuts.

3. Boil the Peanuts:

   Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat a bit but keep the water boiling gently.

4. Simmer:

   Allow the peanuts to boil/simmer for about 2 to 3 hours (the longer they boil, the softer they'll be so if you like them with a little crunch, only boil 1 1/2 to 2 hours). Check them occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep them submerged. The cooking time can vary based on the size and freshness of the peanuts, so start checking for doneness after about 2 hours. The peanuts should be soft and tender.

5. Add Salt:

  15 minutes before you stop boiling, add your salt to the water. A good starting point is about 1/4 cup, but the best way to get your peanuts just the way you want them is to taste the water, when the water tastes as salty as you want your peanuts.... add just a bit more and stop.

6. Let them cool

   Peanuts will float before they are cooked and while they are boiling. As they cool, they draw in the salty water and sink, that is when they are done. We like to boil our peanuts late in the afternoon and let them cool in the water over night, but the longer they sit, the saltier and softer they will be.

7. Drain and serve:

   Once done, drain the peanuts. Eat them warm, room temp, or cold. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers in a sealed container.... but make sure they have fully cooled before sealing.

Feel free to experiment with spices or seasoning, such as cayenne pepper or garlic, for added flavor!