The History of Boiled Peanuts - Savannah GA
Boiled Peanuts are a unique and delicious treat, and part of southern culture. Story artwork imagined and curated by Artist Charles Maring
Boiled Peanuts are a southern snack that are a staple in many families
Sometimes luxuries are the simple things in life that warm our hearts or take us back to fond childhood memories. To me, boiled peanuts do just that. They’ve been a staple in my family since childhood. I spent a lot of time growing up on my grandaddy’s farm, and peanuts were part of the crop rotation. We’d pull them fresh right out of the ground, and grandma would boil them all day long. I can still see the pot on the stove boiling over with fresh peanuts, and smell that farmhouse kitchen air. They’re really easy to make as well assuming you have some time on your hands. Recipe below…
Georgia Peanut Farm
The history of boiled peanuts in Georgia dates back to the early 1800s. It was a popular snack among farmers and laborers who worked in the fields. They would boil the peanuts in a pot, adding salt and other spices to enhance the flavor. Boiled peanuts were a cheap and convenient snack that was easy to make and enjoyed by all.
Georgia boiled peanuts are a traditional Southern snack that is both delicious and healthy. Boiled peanuts are made by soaking raw peanuts in a mixture of water, salt, and spices for several hours, until the peanuts are soft and tender. The result is a snack that is full of flavor, packed with protein, and incredibly satisfying. Boiled peanuts are incredibly versatile and can be eaten as a snack, added to salads, or even used as an ingredient in recipes. They're a great source of protein and fiber, as well as important vitamins and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a great healthy snack choice.
Today, boiled peanuts are still a popular item in the South, and can be found in many stores and roadside stands throughout the region. One of our favorite locations to buy them in the Savannah area is a stand heading out towards Tybee Island on US Hwy 80 known as Davis Produce, who also has fantastic fresh fruits, veggies, and more.
Boiled Peanuts are also easy to make at home. All you need is raw peanuts, water, salt, and any other spices you like. Cajon spice is often a go to in the area. Assuming you are using RAW peanuts and not fresh green peanuts this is how you do it… Soak the raw peanuts in a large 2 gallon pot of water and 1/2 cup or so of salt for a large pot. Soak for a solid 8 hours to help soften them up. Make sure they are all submerged. A dinner plate on top of the pot can help with that.
Boiled peanuts have to boil for 5-8 hours and you should start testing after about 3 hours.
Drain the soaking water, and replace it with fresh water and 3/4 - 1 cup of salt and bring them to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer the peanuts until they are soft. It’ll take 5-8 hours. Check on them in about 3 hours, and if they crunch continue to boil. Only you can decide how much salt is to your preference. So we suggest taste testing, and add more if needed. Or drain and add water to dilute during that 3 hour taste test. Keep sampling about every hour, until the texture fits your liking.
Hot or cold, although we like them hot, boiled peanuts are a delicious snack that's sure to please. Next time you’re in Georgia, be sure to try some and experience the unique flavor of this delicious snack.