Steamed Peanuts

AI Gourmet Analysis

Overview of Steamed Peanuts

Steamed peanuts (English: Boiled Peanuts—in the U.S. usually called "Boiled," while in the Philippines referred to as "Steamed") are a snack food made by steaming or boiling raw, unsprouted peanuts (groundnuts) in their shells. This snack is commonly enjoyed in a wide range of regions including the Philippines, Taiwan, southern China, Vietnam, Thailand, African countries, and the southern United States. Steamed peanuts are characterized by their natural sweetness, saltiness, and unique softness. Heating reduces the characteristic bitterness of peanuts (such as tannins) and enhances their subtle sweetness and umami flavor.

In the Philippines, they are commonly known as "mani," and are especially popular in highland areas such as Baguio, as well as at night markets and street stalls. The image associated with this description was taken at the famous night market in Baguio, Philippines. Peanuts are usually served in transparent cups with generous portions, with the rising steam symbolizing the vibrancy of the market stalls.

History and Spread

Peanuts originated in the Americas and spread to Eurasia and Africa after the Columbian Exchange in the sixteenth century. In the Philippines, peanut cultivation expanded during the Spanish colonial era. Today, different regions have their own preparation methods and seasonings, but steaming or boiling remains one of the most traditional styles of preparation.

Consumption in Southeast Asia, especially the Philippines, is high, and steamed peanuts are popular as street food in urban areas, at local markets, as a snack at home, and during festivals. "Steamed peanuts" share similar cooking methods and flavors with "boiled peanuts" in other countries, making them an interesting food from a cross-cultural perspective.

Preparation and Features

Ingredients and Preprocessing

Unroasted, raw peanuts in their shells are used. The fresher the peanuts (just after harvest), the more suitable they are; thin-skinned and smaller peanuts absorb the steam better and have a more distinctive softness. Dried or roasted peanuts, common in Japan, are not suitable for steaming.

Heating Method

Washed peanuts are heated in a pot or special steamer with an appropriate amount of water (often with added salt). Heating time is typically 30 minutes to one hour, varying by size and freshness of the peanuts. In Baguio’s night markets, large steamers or metal pots are commonly used to prepare large quantities at once.

Flavor and Texture Characteristics

The shells become soft enough to break easily with a little pressure. The beans inside have a sticky or floury texture, featuring natural sweetness and a perfect touch of saltiness. The flavor holds up well even after cooling, but the warmth and juiciness of freshly made steamed peanuts are exceptional.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Peanuts are rich in protein, linoleic and oleic acids, vitamin B group, niacin, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Steamed peanuts are considered a relatively healthy snack because they are cooked without oil, minimizing fat oxidation. However, care must be taken as peanuts can cause severe allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

Relationship with Local Culture and Markets

In the Philippines, steamed peanuts not only serve as a popular snack but also contribute to the local economy. They provide income for farmers through direct sales and support local markets, making them a staple loved by both tourists and residents alike. They are closely linked to street food culture and are a recognized part of the night market experience in northern highland regions such as Baguio.

Steamed Peanuts and Similar Foods Worldwide

Steamed peanuts have equivalents around the world, including "boiled peanuts" in the American South, "shuǐ zhǔ huā shēng" in southern China and Taiwan, and "lạc luộc" in Vietnam. While salt, spices, and side accompaniments vary by country and region, steamed peanuts remain a familiar and popular snack, bridging local culture and dining tables everywhere.