Savory and Chewy Braised Peanuts: The Perfect Side Dish and Snack!
Easy Homemade Recipe for Delicious Braised Peanuts
A family favorite! Introducing a recipe for braised raw peanuts that’s savory, sweet, and intensely nutty with every chew. Their satisfying crunch and rich flavor make them a fantastic rice accompaniment and a delightful snack for any time you’re feeling peckish. My husband loves them so much, I make them frequently! With this recipe, you’re guaranteed to make perfect braised peanuts.
Main Ingredients
- 300g fresh raw peanuts
- 1 tsp vinegar (for blanching)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for finishing)
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Braising Sauce
- 3.5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like Mirin, for removing odor and adding gloss)
- 1 cup water (approx. 200ml)
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup or maltose (for sweetness and gloss)
- 3.5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like Mirin, for removing odor and adding gloss)
- 1 cup water (approx. 200ml)
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup or maltose (for sweetness and gloss)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare your fresh raw peanuts. Rinse them lightly under running water. Place the peanuts in a bowl, add enough cold water to cover, along with 1 tsp of vinegar and 1 tsp of cooking oil (optional, for added tenderness). Let them soak for about 10 minutes. This helps soften the peanut skins and removes any unwanted odors.
Step 2
Transfer the soaked peanuts to boiling water and blanch for 5 to 7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Immediately drain the blanched peanuts in a colander, ensuring all excess water is removed. Blanching them while hot helps the skins peel off easily and retains a pleasant texture.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the key braising sauce for these delicious peanuts. In a small bowl, combine 3.5 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp brown sugar, and 1 Tbsp cooking wine. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
Step 4
Place the blanched and drained peanuts into a pot. Pour in the prepared braising sauce and 1 cup of water (approximately 200ml using a standard Korean paper cup).
Step 5
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has reduced and coated the peanuts. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, stirring gently with a spatula.
Step 6
When the sauce has thickened to about half its original volume and is nicely coating the peanuts, add 3 to 4 tablespoons of corn syrup or maltose for extra sweetness and a beautiful glaze. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens further to prevent sticking.
Step 7
Once the sauce has reduced significantly and coats the peanuts with a glossy sheen, turn off the heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for a final touch of aroma and flavor. Adding sesame oil at the end preserves its fragrant essence.
Step 8
Let the braised peanuts cool slightly before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The delightful balance of savory and sweet, combined with the rich nuttiness that unfolds with each bite, makes these peanuts incredibly delicious as a side dish or a perfect accompaniment to drinks. You must try making them!
