Description
Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts are a flavorful Southern snack made by simmering raw green peanuts in a tangy pickle brine with garlic, dill, and optional spices, resulting in tender, savory peanuts infused with classic dill pickle flavor. Perfect served warm or chilled as a unique and addictively tasty appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds raw green peanuts (fresh or thawed)
- 3 cups pickle brine
- 3 cups water
- 3–4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 tablespoons dill weed or 3 tablespoons fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Ingredients
- 1–2 teaspoons pickling spices
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or liquid smoke
- Additional fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary) to taste
Instructions
- Rinse Peanuts: Rinse the raw green peanuts under cool running water thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. If you are using frozen peanuts, make sure to allow them to thaw completely before cooking.
- Prepare Brine Mixture: In a large pot, combine the pickle brine and water. Add the smashed garlic cloves, dill weed or fresh dill, salt, and any optional pickling spices. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Peanuts: Add the rinsed peanuts to the simmering brine. Reduce the heat to low and allow the peanuts to cook, partially covered, for 2 to 3 hours, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep peanuts submerged throughout the cooking process.
- Check Flavor and Texture: Sample a few peanuts to check for doneness and flavor balance. Adjust salt, spices, or sweetness as desired. If you prefer a softer texture, continue cooking until peanuts soften further.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let the peanuts cool in the brine. This resting period allows the flavors to fully absorb. Serve the boiled peanuts warm or chilled, garnished with fresh dill or cracked black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or fully thawed raw green peanuts for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust salt and spices carefully to balance the pickle flavor to your preference.
- Adding honey or brown sugar can create a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy brine.
- Keep peanuts submerged in liquid during cooking to ensure even flavor penetration and tenderness.
- Peanuts can be stored in their brine in the refrigerator for several days to enhance flavor further.
