Dry Roasted Peanuts Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s super easy to make and delivers the perfect snack with a kick of smoky flavor and satisfying crunch. Plus, it feels great to whip up my own roasted peanuts and enjoy a healthy, homemade treat that’s always ready to go when those snack cravings hit!

I enjoy making uncomplicated, nourishing snacks, and my all-time favorite is dry-roasted peanuts. Using 2 cups of shelled, raw peanuts, they transform into a healthful protein and fiber-rich power snack.

Most of the time, I add 1-2 teaspoons of vegetable oil for flavor and a sprinkle of salt and smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Raw Peanuts:
The content is plentiful in protein and healthful fats; it is an excellent source of fiber.

Vegetable Oil:
Optional; adds flavor; contains healthy unsaturated fats.

Salt:
Improves taste; ensure a nutritious balance.

Smoked Paprika/Chili Powder:
Imparts a quality of smokiness or heat; deepens the flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups raw peanuts, shelled
• 1-2 teaspoons vegetable oil (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (optional, for seasoning)

Instructions

1. Your oven should be at 350°F (175°C) when you prepare to bake. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to ensure that whatever you bake does not stick to the pan.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the raw shelled peanuts and vegetable oil, if using. Stir until the peanuts are evenly coated.

3. Ensure that the salt and, if desired, smoked paprika or chili powder are evenly distributed over the peanuts.

4. Place the seasoned peanuts in a single layer on the baking sheet that has been prepared in advance.

5. The baking sheet goes in the oven, which has been preheated to the necessary temperature.

6. Peanuts should be roasted for 20-25 minutes and must be stirred every 5-10 minutes to make sure they are roasting evenly.

7. Watch the peanuts carefully while they cook, as different ovens can have different cooking times and can cause the peanuts to burn if not monitored.

8. When the peanuts are golden brown and smell wonderful, take them out of the oven.

9. Let the peanuts cool completely on the baking sheet; they will become more crunchy as they cool.

10. An airtight container allows you to keep dry roasted peanuts at room temperature for up to a week. After that, they should not be expected to maintain their flavor and freshness. But who would let peanuts languish for that long? When they’re in sight, they’re liable to be in mouth—a quick, crunchy source of protein and monounsaturated fats.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper or cooking spray/oil
4. Mixing bowl
5. Stirring spoon or spatula
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Airtight container

FAQ

• Can I use roasted peanuts for this recipe?Using raw peanuts is best for achieving a truly dry roasted outcome. If roasted peanuts are used, they can be overly dry and may not absorb seasonings well.
• Is the vegetable oil necessary?The optional oil can enhance the flavor and assist the seasonings in adhering better, but you can eliminate it for a completely dry roast.
• How can I ensure even roasting?Arrange the peanuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and stir them every 10 minutes while roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching.
• What should I do if my peanuts are burning?Reduce the temperature and check often. Redistribute any hot spots by stirring frequently.
• How long do these dry roasted peanuts last?Keep them in a container that will not let any air in at room temperature for no more than a couple of weeks, or in the icebox for no more than a month.
• Can I add other seasonings?Certainly! You can play around with various spices or herbs to make the flavor your own.
• Can I use a different type of oil?Certainly, you may use variations of oil, such as olive or peanut oil, for a distinct flavor profile.

Substitutions and Variations

Instead of raw peanuts, use raw almonds or cashews for a different nut flavor.
For a different flavor, you can substitute olive oil or melted coconut oil for vegetable oil.
Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used instead of plain salt, yielding different minerals and potentially interesting flavor effects in your dish.
You can substitute smoked paprika with standard paprika or cayenne pepper, but expect a different level of heat and smokiness.

Pro Tips

1. Choose Quality Peanuts: Start with high-quality, fresh raw peanuts for the best flavor. Look for peanuts that are uniform in size to ensure even roasting.