Quick Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts

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Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts are one of the easiest things you can make at home, bringing the taste of a salty southern snack right to your kitchen. If you’ve ever driven through the South, you’ve probably seen roadside stands and gas stations selling this southern delicacy in paper bags. Now, instead of spending hours using the traditional method, you can use your electric pressure cooker to enjoy perfectly seasoned peanuts in a fraction of the time.

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Types of Peanuts for Boiling

When it comes to making instant pot boiled peanuts, not all peanuts are the same. The type you choose will affect both the cooking time and the texture of your final salty southern snack. Here are the most common varieties you’ll see at local grocery stores, farmers markets, or roadside stands:

Fresh Green Peanuts

Fresh green peanuts are harvested straight from the field and have a higher moisture content than other types. They haven’t been dried, so they cook faster and have a softer, creamier texture when boiled. These are considered the best choice if you want your peanuts ready in the shortest cooking process.

Raw Peanuts

Raw peanuts are a great option because they are widely available in local grocery stores. They’re not roasted peanuts — instead, they’re uncooked but may have been dried after harvest. When boiled in seasoned water, raw peanuts soften nicely but may require a little longer cook time than fresh green peanuts.

Raw Dried Peanuts

Raw dried peanuts are another option you may see in bags at your grocery store. Because they have less moisture, they take longer to fully soften. If using the traditional method, these might need to simmer in salted water all day. In the Instant Pot, however, they’re ready in a fraction of the time. You might need to extend the high pressure cooking time by 15–20 minutes depending on your texture preference.

Roasted Peanuts (Not for Boiling)

It’s important to note that roasted peanuts are not the same as raw peanuts. Once roasted, the shells harden and they won’t soften properly in seasoned water, no matter how long the cook time. Save roasted peanuts for snacking dry — boiled peanuts require raw or green varieties for the best results.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts

• 1 pound of raw peanuts or raw dried peanuts
• 10 cups of cold water (enough water to fully cover the peanuts)
• ½ cup of salt

Optional seasonings if you want a spicy version:

• Cajun seasoning or creole seasoning
• Red pepper flakes
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

How to Cook Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts

Rinse the Peanuts

Place your raw peanuts in a colander and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess dirt from the shells.

Add to the Instant Pot

Pour the peanuts into your electric pressure cooker.

Season the Water

Add 10 cups of water, ½ cup of salt, and stir well.

Submerge Peanuts Under the Water 

Place the trivet on top of the peanuts to keep them from floating. This ensures the cooking liquid covers them completely.

Set the Instant Pot

Lock the lid and close the vent. Cook on manual high pressure for 1 hour.

Release

Allow a natural pressure release. Do not use quick release for this recipe, as the cooking process continues while pressure drops.

Enjoy

Scoop the peanuts straight from the salty brine and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts

Cooking Time and Texture

One hour on high pressure makes them soft but still firm. If you want softer peanuts, you can extend the cook time by 15–20 minutes.

Seasoned Water Variations

Try experimenting with different peanut recipes. Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, and even a little maple syrup can make your peanuts stand out.

Storage

Leftover peanuts can be stored at room temperature for a few hours, but for longer storage keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to a week.

Reheating

Warm them back up in seasoned water on the stovetop or in the crock pot.

Flavor Variations for Boiled Peanuts

Classic Salty Peanuts

The traditional method uses just salted water and raw peanuts. It’s the flavor you’ll remember from roadside stands and gas stations across the South. If this is your first time making boiled peanuts, you can’t go wrong starting here.

Instant Pot Cajun Style

If you like a kick of spice, add Cajun seasoning or creole seasoning to the cooking process. For even more heat, toss in a handful of red pepper flakes. These instant pot cajun peanuts are bold, flavorful, and the perfect game day snack.

Garlic and Onion Blend

For a savory twist, add garlic powder and onion powder to the seasoned water. The flavors soak into the shells during the cook time, giving the peanuts a subtle but delicious extra layer of flavor.

Sweet and Salty Mix

Though not traditional, some people love a little bit of sweet with their salty peanuts. Try adding a spoonful of maple syrup or honey to the cooking liquid. The sweet balances the salty brine and creates a unique flavor. (It’s like the peanut version of kettle corn!)

Herb Infused Peanuts

For a more unique spin, drop in a bay leaf, a sprig of thyme, or even a pinch of rosemary during the cooking process. The herbs give a subtle aroma that turns boiled peanuts into a gourmet snack you’ll want to enjoy on the front porch.

Conclusion

Boiled peanuts are more than just a salty southern snack—they’re a taste of tradition that’s been enjoyed on the side of the road, at farmers markets, and during game day gatherings for generations. With this easy recipe, you can skip the long simmering and enjoy instant pot boiled peanuts in a fraction of the time. Whether you like them plain in salty water, spiced up with Cajun seasoning, or flavored with a little bit of garlic and onion, they make a great snack to share with family and friends.

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