Peanuts
An oil-rich legume with a pronounced flavour and crunchy texture, used as a snack, garnish, spread or sauce ingredient.
What it offers and why to use it
Although grouped with nuts in cooking, peanuts are legumes. They provide protein, unsaturated fats and fibre, but are energy-dense.
Roasted, slightly sweet and earthy, with a stronger aroma when warmed.
From shopping to cooking
Choose
Choose dry, crunchy peanuts without a rancid taste. For roasted versions, favour products without excessive salt or added oils.
Store
Keep airtight in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration helps preserve freshness after opening, particularly in summer.
Prepare
Use in salads, stir-fries, Asian-style sauces, spreads, baking and crunchy toppings.
How to make the most of it
Good pairings
Pairs with green beans, carrots, prawns, chicken, lime, chilli, soy sauce and chocolate.
How to substitute it
Replace with cashews, almonds or sunflower seeds where appropriate, always checking allergies.
Recipes with peanuts
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