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If you like boiled peanuts, you’re in luck. If you like smoked peanuts, you’re in luck too. These smoked peanuts in the shell will satisfy you no matter which camp you’re in. Lightly smoky and well, pea-like, you’ll want to make a big ole batch for snacking during the next big game on TV.
These Aren’t Roasted Nuts
Unlike just boiled peanuts, which have a soggy shell, these smoked peanuts in the shell spend some quality time over higher heat, giving the shells an almost roasted-like texture. So when you crack one open, you might be expecting a roasted peanut. That’s not what you’ll get. The time in the brine not only softens the peanuts it lets them absorb smoke. That’s what you’re after.
Grab A Basket Or Mat
I like to use my grilling basket or a grill mat for these peanuts. First, it makes putting them on the smoker and taking them back off a total breeze. No way would want to do that one at a time with grill tongues! Second, it makes for the easiest cleanup in the world. No scrubbing, no soaking. Just grab a soapy sponge and it’ll wipe clean.
Also try my smoked spicy nuts and my smoked pistachios. Peanuts roasted on a rotisserie are also a must-make!
Smoked Peanuts in the Shell
Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 pounds raw peanuts in shell
Instructions
- Combine the water, salt, sugar and peanuts in a large pot over high heat. Bring to a boil and continue to boil for 20 minutes.
- Drain the peanuts into a large colander and then spread out on a flat surface covered with towels to dry completely.
- Fire up your smoker for 250 F. Use any wood you prefer, but the peanuts will absorb the smoke so I recommend a lighter fruit wood.
- Add the peanuts to the smoker. If your grates are too wide, add foil sheets or pans with holes poked in them or use a grill mat like I did.
- Cover grill and smoke for 20 minutes. Stir and smoke 20 more minutes. And then stir and smoke 20 more minutes. If the nuts aren't a bit crunchy continue smoking or transfer to a sheet pan in a 225 F oven or on a grill until golden brown and crunchy.
- Store in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Nutritional values are approximate.
Why am I draining potatoes in Step 2?
Oops, that’s embarrassing! Sorry about the typo. I bet somewhere I have a potato recipe where I say to drain the peanuts.
It should say ‘drain the peanuts’.
Regards,
Mike
Just got a smoker yesterday and my husband is asking about smoked peanuts. Came across your recipe. I’m
Curious what the purpose of the sugar is in the boiling process? Thanks!
Hi Kristina. The sugar adds back a little of the sweetness that is lost during the boiling process. It does not make the peanuts sugary sweet.
Hope that helps,
Mike