Peanuts are not just a healthy snack, but they can also be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. Whether you prefer them crunchy, creamy, or savory, peanuts add a unique flavor and texture to meals. Here are 8 amazing peanut recipes that will have your family members asking you to make them again and again.
1. Peanut Butter Chicken
Peanut butter isn’t just for sandwiches; it can be the secret ingredient in savory dishes like Peanut Butter Chicken. This rich and creamy chicken dish features a combination of chicken, peanut butter, coconut milk, and spices like ginger and garlic. Served over rice, this dish is comforting and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken breasts in a skillet, then set them aside.
- In the same pan, add peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Stir until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the pan and simmer in the peanut sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve with steamed rice.
2. Peanut Noodles
Peanut noodles are a popular dish, especially in Asian cuisine. This recipe combines peanut butter with soy sauce, garlic, and lime to create a sweet, savory, and tangy sauce that perfectly coats noodles.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or spaghetti)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles according to package directions, then drain.
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil.
- Toss the cooked noodles with the peanut sauce.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro before serving.
3. Peanut Chutney
A staple in Indian cuisine, peanut chutney is a tangy and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with dosa, idli, or even as a sandwich spread. The blend of peanuts with spices creates a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/4 cup grated coconut
- 2-3 green chilies
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
Instructions:
- Blend the peanuts, coconut, green chilies, tamarind paste, and salt into a smooth paste.
- In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add to the chutney.
- Serve the chutney with dosas or idlis.
4. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
Start your day with this quick and nutritious smoothie. The creamy peanut butter pairs wonderfully with ripe bananas and honey, making it a great option for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 banana
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Blend all the ingredients until smooth.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, nutty flavor.
5. Peanut Stir-Fry
This simple and healthy stir-fry is packed with vegetables and topped with roasted peanuts, which provide a satisfying crunch. It’s a quick and easy dish for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a pan, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili flakes, then toss to coat the veggies.
- Top with roasted peanuts before serving.
6. Peanut Butter Cookies
Classic peanut butter cookies are a favorite for any cookie lover. These simple, yet delicious cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with the rich taste of peanut butter. Perfect for dessert or as a snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet, flattening them with a fork.
- Bake for 10 minutes, let them cool, and enjoy.
7. Peanut and Spinach Salad
This vibrant salad is full of fresh greens, with the added crunch of peanuts. The dressing is a tangy peanut sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
- Toss the spinach, cucumber, onion, peanuts, and sesame seeds in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
8. Peanut Brittle
A traditional treat, peanut brittle is a sweet and crunchy candy that is easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients, you can create this addictive snack that’s perfect for holidays or any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups roasted peanuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the peanuts and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, salt, and butter until smooth.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet and let it cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Peanuts are a versatile ingredient that can add flavor, texture, and crunch to various dishes. From savory meals to sweet treats, these 8 peanut recipes are sure to become family favorites that your loved ones will ask for again and again.
