Tasty Tuesday - Boiled Peanuts!

I was stumped as to what recipe to provide as my Tasty Tuesday today because I haven't cooked anything new recently. But then, I saw these stack of cookbooks on my desk (long story) so I started skimming through them. Being true to my southern roots, I immediately stopped in my tracks when I saw "Lowcountry Boiled Peanuts." Pretty much the easiest recipes ever! If you've never had them, please try them for me! :)

Lowcountry Boiled Peanuts

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

4 pounds green peanuts in shell

6 quarts water

6-10 tablespoons salt (I like mine reallly salty!)

Directions:

Place peanuts in a large stock pot with water and salt.

Cover, bring to a boil, and boil slowly for 1.5-2 hours.

Test for doneness; peanuts should be soft.

Allow to soak for 30 minutes. Drain.

May be frozen in plastic bags after cooling. Thaw and reheat by placing in microwave for 2 or 3 minutes.

And if you like a little kick...

Cajun Boiled Peanuts (my fave)

Ingredients:

2 lbs. of green peanuts in shell          

2 tablespoons of salt

1 bag of Zatarain's Crab and Shrimp Boil

1 tablespoon of red pepper (or more, if you are feeling lucky)

Instructions:

Place the peanuts in a large pot and add enough water to cover them and almost fill the pot.

Add the salt and stir it real well.

Turn the stove to the high heat setting and cover until it boils.

Add the Zatarain's and the red pepper.

Reduce the heat just enough to keep it from boiling over.

Boil the peanuts for 4 hours. Add water as needed to keep the peanuts covered.

Drain the peanuts and serve.