Name: Gullah Boiled Peanuts Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Gullah Geechee
Ingredients: 2 lbs raw green peanuts (uncooked, in shell); 1/2 cup salt; 8 cups water; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (optional for spicy); 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 bay leaves; 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

Soft, salty, Southern boiled peanuts — a Gullah Geechee roadside tradition. This boiled peanuts recipe is the ultimate Lowcountry snack.

Ingredients

2 lbs raw green peanuts (uncooked, in shell)
1/2 cup salt
8 cups water
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (optional for spicy)
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Rinse peanuts thoroughly in cold water to remove dirt. Discard any that are floating or have broken shells.
In a large stockpot, combine water, salt, Cajun seasoning (if using), garlic, bay leaves, and hot sauce. Stir to dissolve salt.
Add peanuts to the pot. They should be fully submerged — add more water if needed.
Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours. Check texture after 2 hours.
Peanuts are done when they are soft and tender, like a cooked bean. Not crunchy.
Taste and add more salt if needed. Let peanuts soak in the brine for 30 minutes off heat.
Drain and serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in the brine in the refrigerator.

💡 Pro Tip: Green peanuts are essential — raw dried peanuts won't work. Look for them at roadside stands in the Lowcountry from June to September.