Boiled peanuts have always been a road-trip staple in my family, a salty, tender snack we’d pick up from roadside stands in the South. The kind of snack you can’t help but keep going back for, one salty, savory bite at a time. But when I discovered you could make them at home in the Instant Pot—no slow simmering required—I knew I had to give it a try.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The Instant Pot takes what used to be an all-day process and turns it into a quick, hands-off method that delivers perfectly soft, flavorful peanuts in under two hours.
The aroma of warm, salty peanuts fills the kitchen, inviting you to grab a handful as soon as they’re done. Whether you like yours plain or with a kick of spice, the Instant Pot guarantees they’re cooked to perfection every single time.
If you’re in the mood for a Southern pairing, try serving these boiled peanuts with a Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail—perfect for summer get-togethers or game day snacking!
Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts
Equipment
- Instant pot
- Strainer
- Measuring spoon
Ingredients
- 11 cups Water
- 1 lb Raw peanuts in the shell
- ½ tbsp Liquid smoke (optional)
- 1½ tbsp salt
Instructions
- Place the peanuts and water into your Instant Pot.
- Add salt and liquid smoke, stirring to combine.
- Secure the lid, ensuring it’s set to the sealing position, and cook on manual high pressure for 80 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Once done, drain the peanuts and enjoy!
Notes
- Use raw, unshelled peanuts for the best texture and taste.
- If you like softer peanuts, increase the cooking time by 10 minutes.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 162 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Calcium | 35 mg |
What to Serve With Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts?
Helpful Tips For You!
Tip 1: Stir halfway
If you want evenly cooked peanuts, pause halfway through and give the peanuts a stir, ensuring they all get the same pressure.
Tip 2: Marinate after cooking
Let the peanuts sit in the brine for an hour after cooking to absorb more flavor before draining.