Raw blanched peanuts are a simple culinary delight with a wide range of applications. These humble legumes, stripped of their reddish-brown skins, offer a unique texture and flavour profile that adds depth to both sweet and savoury dishes. Whether enjoyed as a standalone snack, used in Asian cuisine, or incorporated into baked goods and desserts, raw blanched peanuts provide a satisfying crunch and a nutritional punch. Blanching is a simple yet effective process that involves briefly immersing raw peanuts in boiling water and then promptly cooling them. The heat loosens the skins, enabling easy removal. After blanching, the peanuts are typically soaked in cold water and then gently rubbed to eliminate any residual skin. The result is a batch of creamy white peanuts with a smoother texture and milder flavour compared to their unblanched counterparts. This process also helps enhance the peanuts' shelf life by reducing the presence of oils and enzymes that can lead to rancidity. Raw blanched peanuts offer a range of essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for human health. Moreover, they are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health. Raw blanched peanuts are also packed with dietary fibre, aiding digestion and contributing to a feeling of fullness. Peanuts also contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, folate, niacin, magnesium, and phosphorus, which play essential roles in energy production, nerve function, bone health, and more. Furthermore, raw blanched peanuts are a valuable source of antioxidants, such as resveratrol, which has been linked to potential anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. The versatility of raw blanched peanuts makes them a popular ingredient in a wide array of dishes. In Asian cuisine, they are commonly used in stir-fries, noodle dishes, and sauces. Crushed or ground blanched peanuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavour to Thai peanut sauces, Chinese cold noodle salads, and Vietnamese spring rolls.In Western cuisine, raw blanched peanuts find their way into both savoury and sweet creations. They are a welcome addition to salads, where their rich flavour complements greens and vegetables. Moreover, raw blanched peanuts can be roasted and seasoned with spices, adding a savoury twist to snack mixes or as a topping for soups and stews. When it comes to desserts, raw blanched peanuts shine. They can be ground into flour and used in cookies, cakes, and pie crusts, providing a unique texture and enhancing the overall taste. Peanut butter made from raw blanched peanuts is creamy and smooth, perfect for spreading on toast or incorporating into confections like fudge and truffles. Whether you're a fan of global cuisine or a home cook experimenting with new flavors, raw blanched peanuts are a must-have ingredient in your pantry. Their ability to seamlessly integrate into both sweet and savory dishes opens up a world of culinary possibilities. So, embrace the versatility and nutritional benefits of raw blanched peanuts, and let them take your cooking to new heights.
