Peanut

What Is a Peanut?

The peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is botanically a plant of the legume family; its name comes from the fact that its seed pods mature underground after flowering. In the kitchen and in dietary habits, however, it is classified together with other “nuts.”

Inside its hard, thin shell is a two-lobed, cream-colored, crunchy kernel. Raw, roasted, salted or unsalted, it is one of the most widely consumed nuts around the world.

Nutritional Values of Peanuts

Peanuts are among the highest-protein nuts; 100 grams contain approximately 567 kcal, 25.8 g protein, and 8.5 g fiber. Most of their fat consists of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

What Are the Benefits of Peanuts?

With their high protein and fiber content, peanuts are preferred as part of a balanced diet, especially by those seeking a plant-based protein source. There are studies examining the relationship between their unsaturated fats and compounds like niacin with cardiovascular health.

This information is general; peanuts are a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Due to their calorie density, a daily handful (approximately 25-30 g) is recommended; peanuts are also one of the most common food allergens.

How to Choose Peanuts?

Fresh peanuts should have a brittle, dry shell, and the kernel should be a homogeneous cream color.

• The shell should have no moisture marks or mold spots.
• Darkening or shriveling in the kernel indicates loss of freshness.
• For roasted and salted products, check the salt amount on the label.

How to Store Peanuts?

Shelled peanuts stay fresh for 1-2 months in an airtight container in a cool, dark place; for 6 months in the refrigerator, and up to 1 year in the freezer. Since the risk of mold increases in humid environments, a dry location should be chosen.

Using Peanuts in the Kitchen

Peanuts are eaten raw or roasted as a snack, ground into peanut butter, used in sauces in Far Eastern and African cuisines, and used in desserts and cookies.

How to Make Peanut Butter?

Roasted shelled peanuts are ground in a food processor, first to a flour-like consistency and then for a long time until they release their own oil and turn into a smooth paste; salt can be added if desired.

How to Roast Peanuts?

Shelled peanuts are roasted in a 160-170°C oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally; if in-shell, the time is kept slightly longer.

Which Recipes Use Peanuts?

Peanut butter, peanut sauce, peanut cookies, sweet-and-sour Asian recipes, and peanut chocolate are the best-known uses of peanuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are peanuts healthy?

With their high protein and fiber ratio, peanuts, consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet; however, portion control is important due to their calorie density.

What is the difference between peanuts and pistachios?

Peanuts are botanically legumes, while pistachios are the fruit of a tree from the cashew family; they also differ significantly in taste, texture, and price.

Why does the peanut allergy matter so much?

Peanuts are among the foods that can cause one of the most common and severe food allergies; people with sensitivity and their families must strictly follow their doctor's advice regarding consumption.

Can salted roasted peanuts be eaten every day?

Salted roasted peanuts should be consumed in moderation due to their sodium content; unsalted raw or roasted versions can be preferred to balance daily salt intake.

Do peanut butter and peanuts have the same nutritional value?

Peanut butter largely carries the same nutrients, but sugar or oil may be added to some commercial products; reading the label is recommended.