To make boiled peanuts, follow these steps:

Ingredients

• 2 pounds raw or green peanuts in the shell (not roasted)
• 4 quarts water
• 1/2 cup kosher or sea salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional: additional seasonings like Cajun spice, garlic powder, or hot peppers

Instructions

1. Wash the peanuts thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. For green peanuts, wash 3 times, changing water each time; for raw peanuts, wash once and discard any bad peanuts

2. Place peanuts in a large pot and add water to cover them completely. Add salt and stir to dissolve. Add any optional seasonings at this point

3. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer

4. Simmer the peanuts :
   • For green peanuts: 2 to 4 hours
   • For raw peanuts: 5 to 8 hours
     Cooking time depends on your preferred tenderness—some like them soft and almost mushy, others firmer. Check occasionally and add water as needed to keep peanuts submerged

5. Test for doneness by removing a peanut, letting it cool briefly, then cracking the shell and tasting the nut inside. When tender and flavorful, they are ready

6. Cool and drain the peanuts in their cooking liquid. They can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or cold. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week

Tips

• Weigh down peanuts with a plate to keep them submerged during cooking

• You can use a stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker for boiling peanuts. Cooking times vary by method (Instant Pot cooks faster, slow cooker takes longer)

• For spicy boiled peanuts, add jalapeños, habaneros, or Cajun seasoning to the cooking water

This method yields a salty, tender, and addictive Southern snack perfect for gatherings or casual snacking