Appetizer: United States – South Carolina – Boiled Peanuts

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 2 hrs

Additional 40 min

Total 2 hrs 40 min

Ingredients

- 3 lb (1.36 kg) raw green peanuts in shell
- 6 qt (5.7 L) water (enough to cover peanuts by ~2 in / 5 cm)
- 1/2 cup (120 g) kosher salt or coarse sea salt
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Cajun seasoning (optional, for a spicier South Carolina taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- Extra coarse salt or sea salt, for finishing (optional)

Instructions

Short Description:
Fresh green peanuts boiled in heavily salted water until the kernels reach a soft, bean-like texture; a classic South Carolina snack served warm or at room temperature.

Regional Notes:
This South Carolina version uses raw green peanuts boiled in salted water and often includes bold seasoning (Cajun seasoning is common) so the nutmeat becomes soft and well seasoned. Unlike dry-roasted peanut snacks, these are wet, salty, and eaten shell-and-all as a finger food throughout the Lowcountry and Midlands.

1. Rinse the green peanuts under cold running water and pick out any damaged or moldy pods.  
2. Place the peanuts in a large stockpot and add the water, kosher salt, Cajun seasoning (if using), and bay leaves. Stir to dissolve the salt as much as possible.  
3. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over high heat uncovered.  
4. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, partially cover the pot, and simmer. Check and stir every 30–45 minutes; if water level drops, add more boiling water to keep peanuts submerged.  
5. After about 2 hours begin testing: crack a shell and taste the kernel. Green peanuts should reach a soft, bean-like texture—typically 2–4 hours total depending on freshness and size. Continue simmering until desired softness is reached.  
6. When the peanuts are tender, remove the pot from the heat and let the peanuts sit in the cooking liquid for 20–40 minutes to deepen flavor (longer sitting yields saltier peanuts).  
7. Drain well and serve warm or at room temperature. Sprinkle extra coarse salt if you want a saltier finish. Eat by shelling the softened kernels with your teeth.  
8. To store: keep peanuts submerged in their cooking liquid in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat by simmering in a bit of water (5–15 minutes) before serving.