If you’ve ever been curious about diving into a truly Southern snack that’s rich in flavor and perfect for sharing, then this Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. These tender, salty peanuts soaked in a zesty Cajun seasoning come out irresistibly soft and full of bold taste, all made hassle-free thanks to the Instant Pot. Whether you’re craving a cozy appetizer or a fun party treat, this recipe offers a perfect blend of comfort and spice that’s sure to win over peanut lovers everywhere.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts Recipe relies on just a handful of simple yet key ingredients. Each one plays a vital role from delivering punchy flavor to achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Plus, the subtle hues from the seasoning really lift the dish visually, making it as appetizing to look at as it is to eat.
- Raw peanuts in the shell (1½ pounds): Fresh and raw are essential for soaking up flavor and achieving the perfect softness without being mushy.
- Cajun/Creole seasoning (⅓ cup): This brings a spicy, smoky kick with hints of garlic and paprika—don’t skip this for an authentic Southern taste.
- Salt (¼ cup): Crucial for drawing out the peanut’s natural flavors while balancing the seasoning’s heat.
- Water: The soaking medium that allows all the flavors to mingle and the peanuts to cook evenly.
How to Make Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts Recipe
Step 1: Combine Peanuts with Seasoning
Start by placing those raw peanuts straight into the Instant Pot. Next, sprinkle in the Cajun or Creole seasoning and salt. This is where the magic begins—the seasoning will seep into every peanut, creating layers of bold, savory goodness.
Step 2: Add Water to Cover Peanuts
Pour in enough water so that all the peanuts are fully submerged. This ensures even cooking and helps the flavors penetrate deeply for that ideal sniff-and-nibble snack experience.
Step 3: Secure Lid and Set Cooking Time
Seal the Instant Pot lid tightly and set it to “manual” or “high-pressure” mode for 45 minutes. When the timer is done, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes before quickly releasing any remaining pressure. This step keeps the peanuts tender without turning them into mush.
Step 4: Serve Warm or at Room Temperature
After cooking, you can serve these bad boys warm for that cozy feel or at room temperature—either way, they make an addictive snack that’s perfect anytime.
How to Serve Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a dash of extra Cajun seasoning right before serving to amp up the color and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a bright contrast to the salty richness.
Side Dishes
These boiled peanuts pair wonderfully with cold beer or sweet tea for a true Southern experience. They also complement barbecue dishes beautifully, adding a unique, textural snack option alongside smoky ribs or grilled chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to surprise your guests? Serve the boiled peanuts in rustic bowls alongside small ramekins filled with spicy dipping sauces or flavored butters. Alternatively, scatter them across a festive snack board with crackers, cheese, and pickles for a vibrant appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the boiled peanuts in their cooking liquid inside an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps keep them moist and flavorful for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Boiled peanuts freeze well! Pack them into freezer-safe bags with enough liquid to cover, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To warm up leftover boiled peanuts, simply place them back in a pot with some cooking liquid and heat over low until warm. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving with a damp paper towel covering the bowl works just fine too.
FAQs
Can I use roasted peanuts for this recipe?
It’s best to stick with raw peanuts since roasting changes the texture and won’t absorb the seasoning and water the same way, leading to less tender results.
Is it okay to adjust the cooking time?
Absolutely! If you prefer firmer peanuts, reduce the time slightly. For softer, creamier peanuts, a few extra minutes can do the trick. Just remember the total cooking time affects texture a lot.
What if I don’t have Cajun or Creole seasoning?
No worries! You can mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and a pinch of oregano for a similar flavor profile. The key is balancing heat with savory herbs.
How salty will the peanuts be with this recipe?
The salt quantity is designed to balance the seasoning and enhance flavor without overpowering. You can always adjust slightly if you prefer less salt.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Sure! Boiled peanuts can be cooked in a large pot on the stove, but it takes significantly longer (typically several hours). The Instant Pot speeds up the process and yields more consistent results.
Final Thoughts
Making this Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts Recipe brings a burst of Southern charm right into your kitchen with minimal effort. Each soft, flavorful peanut is proof that sometimes the simplest snacks are the most memorable. Next time you want to treat friends or family, give this a go—you’ll find yourself reaching for another handful before you know it!
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Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts recipe gives you a flavorful Southern snack that’s tender, spicy, and perfectly seasoned with Cajun/Creole spices. Using the Instant Pot dramatically cuts down the cooking time compared to traditional boiling methods, delivering soft, savory peanuts in just about an hour.
Ingredients
Peanuts
- 1½ pounds raw peanuts in the shell
Seasoning
- â…“ cup Cajun/Creole Seasoning
- ¼ cup salt
Liquid
- Water (enough to cover peanuts)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the raw peanuts thoroughly to remove any dirt and debris. This ensures a clean final dish.
- Add Peanuts and Seasonings: Place the rinsed peanuts into the Instant Pot. Sprinkle in the Cajun/Creole seasoning and salt evenly over the peanuts.
- Add Water: Pour in enough water to completely cover the peanuts inside the Instant Pot, ensuring they can cook evenly.
- Seal and Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘High-Pressure’ cooking mode and set the timer for 45 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes to let the peanuts finish cooking gently. Then, carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining steam.
- Serve: Open the lid and stir the peanuts. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture, or allow to cool to room temperature before enjoying.
Notes
- Use raw peanuts in the shell for the authentic boiled peanut experience.
- Cajun/Creole seasoning can be adjusted to taste or replaced with your favorite spice blend.
- If you prefer softer peanuts, increase the pressure cook time by 5-10 minutes.
- Boiled peanuts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Enjoy peanuts warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
