Description

Flavor-packed Cajun Boiled Peanuts are a delightful Southern snack infused with bold Creole seasoning, smoky liquid smoke, and a hint of beer for extra depth. These peanuts are simmered slowly until tender, absorbing an irresistible blend of spices, making them the perfect savory treat for gatherings or a unique appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 lbs raw peanuts, in-shell (or green peanuts)
¼ cup Creole Cajun Seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
6 cloves garlic, crushed
2 teaspoons hickory liquid smoke
1 (12-ounce) bottle/can beer (optional)
3–4 quarts water, or enough to cover peanuts

Instructions

Rinse Peanuts: Place the raw peanuts in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cool water at least twice. Remove any debris or bad peanuts you find during this process to ensure cleanliness.
Combine Ingredients in Pot: Transfer the rinsed peanuts into a large stockpot or Dutch oven (7-8 quarts capacity). Add the Creole Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, Old Bay seasoning, crushed red pepper, brown sugar, crushed garlic, liquid smoke, and beer if using. Pour enough water to completely cover the peanuts.
Mix and Bring to Boil: Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot, leaving a small vent for steam escape.
Simmer and Monitor: Allow peanuts to simmer gently for 7-8 hours or longer according to your texture preference. Every hour, check the liquid level to ensure peanuts remain submerged; add warm or boiled water if necessary to replace evaporation.
Test for Doneness: Peanuts are ready when the shells feel semi-soft, with the inside peanuts tender yet slightly firm. Taste test during cooking to reach your desired softness and flavor.
Enjoy or Store: Serve the boiled peanuts hot or let them cool to room temperature. Transfer peanuts and cooking liquid to an airtight container and refrigerate for enhanced flavor infusion. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to eat.

Notes

Using green peanuts will yield a fresher, slightly softer texture than raw dried peanuts.
If you prefer, omit the beer for a non-alcoholic version; water alone works well.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and spice levels depending on preference.
Longer cooking times produce softer, more tender peanuts but monitor liquid levels carefully to prevent burning.
Storage in cooking liquid keeps peanuts moist and flavorful for up to 5 days refrigerated.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern Cajun

Keywords: Cajun boiled peanuts, Southern snack, Cajun seasoning, boiled peanuts recipe, Creole peanuts, spicy boiled peanuts, Cajun appetizer