Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly satisfying snack that's bursting with flavour? Look no further! This recipe for French Burnt Peanuts is the perfect solution. These crunchy, sweet, and subtly salty peanuts are addictive, making them ideal for movie nights, parties, or simply a delicious midday treat. This recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and quick homemade cooking can be, delivering big on taste without demanding hours in the kitchen. It's one of those best recipes you'll want to keep coming back to!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsalted peanuts (shelled)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Preparing your workspace beforehand is a key tip for easy recipes like this one.
Making the Burnt Peanuts:
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Do not stir. Let the mixture come to a boil, and continue to boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color, reaching the hard-crack stage (approximately 300°F on a candy thermometer). Be careful – hot sugar is dangerous!
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Once the sugar reaches the desired color, immediately remove the pan from the heat. Carefully stir in the butter (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt. Be cautious as the mixture will be extremely hot.
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Quickly add the peanuts to the caramel mixture and stir continuously until the peanuts are evenly coated. Work quickly, as the caramel will begin to harden.
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Immediately pour the peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out in a single layer.
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Allow the peanuts to cool completely and harden. Once cool, break them apart into smaller pieces.
Serving and Storage:
Store your delicious French burnt peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They make a fantastic addition to your favorite healthy meals, adding a delightful crunch to salads or yogurt parfaits.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Burnt Peanuts:
- Don't stir the sugar syrup while it's boiling. Stirring can cause crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer. This ensures you reach the correct caramel color and consistency.
- Work quickly. Once you remove the caramel from the heat, you need to act fast to prevent it from hardening.
- Be careful of burns. Hot sugar is extremely dangerous. Use caution throughout the entire process.
Variations:
- Spicy Burnt Peanuts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the caramel for a spicy kick.
- Chocolate Covered Burnt Peanuts: Dip the cooled peanuts in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
- Cinnamon Burnt Peanuts: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the caramel for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the serving size and ingredients used. For a more precise nutritional analysis, use an online nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and measurements used. Generally, burnt peanuts are a good source of protein and healthy fats, but they are also high in sugar, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. This recipe is suitable for quick dinner ideas, and for those seeking healthy meal options, incorporating them into a larger meal can complement the nutritional content.
This easy recipe for French burnt peanuts is a delicious addition to your snack repertoire, offering a wonderful combination of sweet and salty flavors in a wonderfully crunchy treat. Perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, you'll find yourself making batch after batch!