southern-style boiled peanuts

I did not grow up in the south, but I've been here long enough to become immersed in southern culture. When I first moved below the Mason-Dixon line, I encountered many things which baffled me: geckos, humidity, using "sir" or "ma'am" with everyone, calling a shopping cart a "buggy," & most intriguing of all, the food. 

My first introduction with boiled peanuts was met with hesitation. Wet, salty peanuts? But I was a fool to doubt this southern tradition. They are addicting. Now my encounters with boiled peanuts are met with glee. & then with regretful willpower, lest I overdose on sodium.

Ingredients // 

• 1 1/2 pounds raw (green) peanuts
• 1 cup salt
• One large stock pot with lid
• Enough water to submerge peanuts in stock pot

Directions // 

1. Rinse peanuts in water.
2. Let them soak in water overnight.
3. Drain the water. In the large stock pot, combine peanuts, salt, & enough water to submerge the peanuts.
4. Bring the water to a boil. Put the lid on, & reduce to a low boil.
5. Boil peanuts for 3-4 hours.
6. Peanuts are done when they are salty & soft. 

I have spent many a summer here in Florida in front of a pot of boiled peanuts, eating one after another. They're also packed full of protein, so technically healthy, right?

xoxo,

-m.e.

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