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    Home / Appetizer / Southern Boiled Peanuts

    Southern Boiled Peanuts

    Raw peanuts in their shells are simmered for hours in heavily salted water until tender and briny, a beloved Southern snack.

    ⏱ 5 minPrep time
    🔥 180 minCook time
    🍽 6Servings
    🏷 AppetizerCategory
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    Southern Boiled Peanuts

    Boiled peanuts are a Southern tradition dating back to the 19th century, when enslaved African Americans introduced peanut cultivation and cooking techniques to the American South. Roadside stands selling boiled peanuts remain a beloved sight throughout Georgia, South Carolina, and neighboring states to this day.

    Salty, soft, and a true Southern roadside classic

    Raw peanuts in their shells are simmered for hours in heavily salted water until tender and briny, a beloved Southern snack.

    Step by stepInstructions

    1. Rinse the raw peanuts well.
    2. Place in a large pot and cover with water by 2 inches.
    3. Stir in the salt (and Cajun seasoning, if using).
    4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook 3-4 hours, adding water as needed.
    5. Taste a peanut for doneness — it should be soft, not crunchy.
    6. Drain and serve warm, shells and all.

    💡 Chef tips & storage

    Raw, green peanuts (not roasted) are essential for this recipe — look for them at Southern grocers or farmers markets. Boiled peanuts also freeze well in their cooking liquid.

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    Recipe details

    Prep5 min
    Cook180 min
    Servings6
    CategoryAppetizer
    PublishedAugust 12, 2026
    Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

    Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

    Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →

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