Description
Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts are a flavorful Southern-inspired snack combining the unique taste of green peanuts simmered slowly in a tangy pickle brine infused with garlic and dill. This recipe yields tender, savory peanuts with a delightful hint of pickling spices and optional heat and smoke, perfect for serving warm or chilled as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds raw green peanuts (fresh or thawed)
- 3 cups pickle brine
- 3 cups water
- 3–4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 tablespoons dill weed or 3 tablespoons fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Ingredients
- 1–2 teaspoons pickling spices
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or liquid smoke
- Additional fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary) to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the peanuts: Thoroughly wash the raw green peanuts under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris, ensuring they are clean. If you are using frozen peanuts, make sure they are fully thawed before proceeding.
- Prepare the simmering brine: In a large pot, combine the pickle brine and water. Add the smashed garlic cloves, dill weed or fresh dill, salt, and any optional pickling spices. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the peanuts: Add the rinsed peanuts to the simmering brine mixture. Lower the heat to maintain a low simmer and cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Check the liquid level periodically and add more water if necessary to keep the peanuts submerged throughout cooking.
- Adjust flavor and texture: After about 2 hours, sample a few peanuts to assess flavor and softness. Adjust salt or spices as needed. Continue simmering if you prefer a softer texture, checking regularly.
- Cool and serve: Once the peanuts reach your desired tenderness, remove the pot from heat and allow the peanuts to cool in the brine to absorb maximum flavor. Serve them warm or chilled, optionally garnished with fresh dill or cracked black pepper for extra flavor.
Notes
- Maintaining the peanuts submerged in the brine is key for even flavor absorption and cooking.
- Cooking time can be adjusted depending on whether you like your boiled peanuts softer or with a bit of firmness.
- Optional ingredients such as honey or smoked paprika add layers of sweetness and smokiness if desired.
- These peanuts can be stored in their brine in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Use fresh or fresh-thawed green peanuts for the best texture and taste; dried peanuts are not recommended.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
