| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 192 | 16g | 6g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 3g | 7g | 0.39g |
In the culinary world, as in life, variety is the spice of things. Drawing inspiration from my Midwestern roots mixed with a well-travelled palette, one of my newest culinary creations are the Spicy Kaffir Lime Peanuts. This recipe encapsulates a whimsical fusion of hearty American snacks with the aromatic flavors of the East.
A Flavorful Journey
Nothing quite encapsulates a summer afternoon in Nebraska than the sight of peanuts roasting in the open air. Simultaneously, this recipe borrows from the land of enchanting flavors, Thailand – homeland of the potent Kaffir lime. The eclectic mix of red Thai chillies and the fragrant kaffir lime leaves brings a new lease on life to the humble peanut. It is this delightful blend of spicy, tangy, and nutty that makes Spicy Kaffir Lime Peanuts an irresistible treat.
The Health Element
Besides their vibrant taste, these Spicy Kaffir Lime Peanuts are surprisingly wholesome. Peanuts, often associated with heart health due to their rich monounsaturated fats, serve as the healthy base of this recipe. The Kaffir lime also provides a generous burst of antioxidants as well as enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
These flavorful peanuts are versatile commodity. They make a wonderful accompaniment to a cold beer as well as an interesting garnish on Thai Noodle Bowls. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, they make for a vibrant twist on the traditional peanut butter sandwich!
As a lover of hearty and wholesome cooking, there are few things I enjoy more than crafting a dish that hits all the right gastronomic notes, while still managing a nod to health awareness. The Spicy Kaffir Lime Peanuts do just that. A pledge to my Midwestern origins, they transmit the comfort of local snack foods while flirting with exotic Thai flavors. Healthful, delicious, and easy to prepare, these nuts have it all!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups unsalted raw peanuts
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 small red Thai chillies
- 4 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lime
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the unsalted raw peanuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast the peanuts in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fragrant and golden. Stir or shake the pan every 5 minutes to ensure even roasting. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Step Two
While the peanuts are roasting, heat the vegetable oil in a small pan on medium heat. Slice the red Thai chilies (remove seeds if you wish to lessen the spiciness) and add them into the pan. Cook until they start releasing their flavors.
Step Three
Add in the finely chopped kaffir lime leaves to the pan, and sauté them together with the chilies until fragrant. Be sure to stir continuously to prevent burning.
Step Four
Reduce the heat to low, then add the sugar, salt, and lime zest to the pan. Stir well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed.
Step Five
Add the roasted peanuts to the pan and toss until they are thoroughly coated in the spicy lime mixture.
Step Six
Turn off the heat and allow the peanuts to cool in the pan. After they have cooled, you can serve them immediately as a snack or store them in an airtight container for up to one week.
