To achieve that perfect crunch and aroma without the oily smell, consider the following tips when preparing peanuts:
Select quality peanuts: The first step to a delicious batch of roasted peanuts is choosing the right type. There are various kinds, such as red, pink, and white peanuts. Among these, red peanuts, with their smaller size, tend to be more flavorful. Larger, non-pinkish white peanuts are of inferior quality and prone to developing an oily smell. It’s important to discard moldy or oily peanuts before roasting.
Clean the peanuts: Peanuts are typically sun-dried with their shells on and then shelled. While it’s a common belief that washing roasted peanuts will make them soggy, a quick rinse helps remove dust and any remaining shell fragments. It also reduces the nutty aroma, controls the oil content, and ensures the peanuts stay crisp for longer. You can quickly blanch the peanuts in boiling water before roasting. Additionally, washing helps the peanuts cook evenly, preventing the shells from burning.
The key to tasty roasted peanuts lies in choosing plump, firm peanuts that haven’t turned oily.
Roasting methods: To ensure your peanuts turn out crispy and flavorful, it’s crucial to roast them thoroughly without burning the shells. Today, many people use pans or deep fryers for this process.
Pan-roasting: Place the peanuts in a pan and stir frequently to ensure even roasting and prevent burning. Adding salt during this process helps absorb excess oil, enhancing the flavor and crispness while preventing burning.
Deep-frying: If using a deep fryer, set the temperature to 150 degrees Celsius. Fry the peanuts for about 10 minutes, then reduce the heat and continue for another 30-45 minutes.
Microwave roasting: Spread the peanuts evenly on a microwave-safe plate and roast for about 3 minutes. Then, turn them over and roast for another 3 minutes.
Tip for long-lasting crispness: Many restaurant chefs swear by the technique of “resting” the roasted peanuts. After roasting, wrap them in clean paper, followed by a layer of newspaper. If possible, add a cloth layer for extra insulation. This process helps distribute the oil evenly, resulting in crisp peanuts that stay fresh and crunchy for longer. The resting time is typically 50-60 minutes. Once cooled, store the peanuts in an airtight container, and they will remain crispy and tasty for up to a month.
