Instant Pot Boiled Peanuts with Cajun Spices
Tender, flavorful boiled peanuts infused with a blend of Cajun-inspired spices including cayenne, garlic, and smoked paprika. This Southern comfort food favorite gets a major time boost from pressure cooking, reducing traditional hours-long cooking to just 80 minutes. The combination of salt, pepper, thyme, and onion powder creates a well-balanced seasoning that penetrates the shells for maximum flavor. Perfect for game day snacking, tailgating, or any casual gathering where you want to serve something uniquely delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Add peanuts to Instant Pot bowl and cover with water
- 2
Add salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and smoked paprika then stir well
- 3
Place trivet on top of peanuts to keep them submerged
- 4
Close lid and pressure cook for 80 minutes
- 5
Allow steam to naturally release then open lid
- 6
Drain peanuts before serving
Tips
Adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne for heat or reducing it for milder flavor
Use the trivet to keep peanuts submerged for even cooking and prevent floating
Taste the cooking liquid and adjust seasonings before pressure cooking if needed
Good to Know
Refrigerate in cooking liquid for up to 1 week
Can be made 2-3 days ahead and reheated
Serve warm or at room temperature
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the trivet or peanuts may not cook evenly
Avoid quick release as it can make peanuts tough
Substitutions
5
FAQ
Can I use raw peanuts instead of salted?
Yes, use raw peanuts in shells and increase the salt to 1/2 teaspoon total for proper seasoning throughout the cooking process.
How long do these keep in the refrigerator?
Store boiled peanuts in their cooking liquid in the refrigerator for up to one week for best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze leftover boiled peanuts?
Yes, freeze in portions with some cooking liquid for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.