Flavor-Filled Cajun Boiled Peanuts Recipe
Introduction
Cajun boiled peanuts are a flavorful Southern snack that brings a spicy, smoky twist to this classic treat. Slow-cooked in a seasoned broth, these peanuts become tender and bursting with bold Creole flavors. Perfect for sharing during game day or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs raw peanuts, in-shell (or green peanuts) – see notes
- ¼ cup Creole Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoons hickory liquid smoke
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle or can of beer (optional)
- 3-4 quarts water, or enough to cover peanuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the peanuts under cool water at least twice. Pick over them carefully to remove any debris or damaged shells.
- Step 2: Place the peanuts into a large stockpot or Dutch oven (7-8 quarts). Add the Creole Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, Old Bay seasoning, crushed red pepper, brown sugar, crushed garlic, hickory liquid smoke, and beer if using. Pour in enough water to completely cover the peanuts.
- Step 3: Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and cover the pot, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Step 4: Allow the peanuts to simmer gently for 7-8 hours or longer, depending on your desired texture. Check the pot every hour to ensure the peanuts remain submerged; add warm water as needed.
- Step 5: Taste the peanuts periodically. They are ready when the shells are semi-soft and the peanuts inside are tender but still slightly firm—adjust cooking time to your preference.
- Step 6: Once cooked, enjoy the peanuts immediately or let them cool to room temperature. Transfer peanuts and cooking liquid to an airtight container for refrigerator storage.
- Step 7: To serve later, reheat the peanuts on the stovetop and enjoy the rich, flavorful snack.
Tips & Variations
- Using green peanuts results in a softer texture, while raw dry peanuts offer a firmer bite.
- Adjust crushed red pepper to control the heat level according to your taste.
- Add extra garlic or a splash of hot sauce to intensify the flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the liquid smoke or use a smoked paprika substitute.
Storage
Store boiled peanuts in an airtight container with the cooking liquid in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to deepen. Reheat gently on the stovetop in the liquid to keep them moist and flavorful.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use raw dry peanuts instead of green peanuts?
Yes, raw dry peanuts can be used, but they generally require a longer cooking time and yield a firmer texture compared to green peanuts, which are softer and more tender.
Is the beer necessary for this recipe?
The beer is optional but adds a subtle depth and richness to the flavor. You can easily omit it and replace with extra water if preferred.
PrintFlavor-Filled Cajun Boiled Peanuts Recipe
This recipe for Flavor-Filled Cajun Boiled Peanuts delivers a spicy, tangy, and satisfying snack perfect for game days or gatherings. Featuring a blend of Creole Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, garlic, and a hint of hickory liquid smoke, these peanuts are simmered slowly until tender, absorbing all the bold flavors for a truly authentic Southern treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern Cajun
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs raw peanuts, in-shell (or green peanuts)
- ¼ cup Creole Cajun Seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoons hickory liquid smoke
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle or can of beer (optional)
- 3–4 quarts water, or enough to cover peanuts
Instructions
- Rinse Peanuts: Place the raw peanuts in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cool water at least twice. Inspect and remove any debris or damaged peanuts before cooking.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the rinsed peanuts to a large stockpot or Dutch oven (7-8 quarts capacity). Add Creole Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, Old Bay seasoning, crushed red pepper, brown sugar, crushed garlic, hickory liquid smoke, and beer if using.
- Add Water and Stir: Pour in enough water to fully cover the peanuts. Gently stir all ingredients to evenly distribute the seasonings and combine the flavors.
- Bring to Boil and Simmer: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot leaving a small vent for steam to escape, and let it gently simmer.
- Simmer for 7-8 Hours: Cook the peanuts by simmering for 7-8 hours or longer depending on your desired texture. Check the liquid level every hour and add warm or boiled water as needed to keep peanuts submerged in the flavorful broth.
- Check Texture and Taste: After several hours, taste test the peanuts. They should be semi-soft on the outside with a tender interior, but you can adjust cooking time to your preference for softness.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy the boiled peanuts fresh and warm. Alternatively, allow them to cool to room temperature, then store them with the cooking liquid in an airtight container in the refrigerator to let the flavors intensify.
- Reheat Before Eating: When ready to serve later, gently reheat the peanuts on the stovetop with their broth and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors again.
Notes
- Using green peanuts will yield a softer texture, but in-shell raw peanuts work well too.
- If you don’t have beer, water alone works fine for boiling.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper to your heat preference.
- Keep an eye on liquid levels to prevent peanuts from drying out during the long simmer.
- Storing peanuts in their cooking liquid helps them absorb and retain flavor.
Keywords: boiled peanuts, cajun peanuts, cajun snack, southern snack, spicy peanuts, boiled peanut recipe, game day snacks
