Glistening & Savory Braised Peanuts: A Classic Korean Side Dish
Easy Homemade Braised Peanuts Recipe Using Raw Peanuts
Discover how to make delicious braised peanuts from fresh, raw peanuts! This recipe results in a wonderfully savory, slightly sweet, and nutty side dish that perfectly complements rice. It’s simpler than you think and makes for a fantastic staple to have on hand. Enjoy this addictive banchan that’s perfect for any meal!
Main Ingredients- 1 cup raw peanuts (approx. 200g)
- 2 cups water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the raw peanuts by removing their outer shells. A handy trick is to use the hinge part of your scissors. Gently pinch the peanut shell in the hinge and twist; the peanut should easily pop out. Once shelled, rinse the peanuts thoroughly under running water several times to wash away any debris.
Step 2
To remove any residual impurities and ensure a cleaner taste, place the rinsed peanuts in a pot. Add enough water to cover them generously and boil for about 10 minutes. This step helps to soften the peanuts and remove any unwanted flavors.
Step 3
After boiling, drain the peanuts and rinse them again under cold running water. This rinsing step helps to reduce any mushiness and maintain a pleasant, slightly firm texture.
Step 4
Now, it’s time to start braising the peanuts. In a pot, combine the rinsed peanuts with 2 cups of water. Ensure the water level is enough to almost cover the peanuts. Add 4 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1.5 tablespoons of sugar. It’s best to start with this amount of soy sauce and adjust later if needed, rather than making it too salty from the start.
Step 5
Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. As the liquid reduces and the peanuts start absorbing the flavors, add 2 tablespoons of corn syrup (or oligosaccharide) to enhance the sweetness. The corn syrup will also add a beautiful gloss to the finished dish.
Step 6
Continue to simmer on low heat until most of the liquid has evaporated and the sauce has thickened into a glaze. Stir occasionally to prevent the peanuts from sticking or burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the peanuts are beautifully coated and glossy.
Step 7
Remove the pot from the heat and let the braised peanuts cool slightly. Sprinkle sesame seeds over them while they are still warm for an extra nutty aroma. Once completely cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This makes for a convenient and long-lasting side dish.
Step 8
Enjoy these savory, sweet, and nutty braised peanuts! They are absolutely delightful served over a bowl of warm rice. This simple yet incredibly flavorful banchan is sure to become a favorite on your table!
