Instant Pot Southern Boiled Peanuts

Cue the classic Southern soundtrack—summer is here and it’s time for Southern boiled peanuts. Passed down to Jeffrey from his Southern friend Richard, these boiled peanuts are not the crunchy roasted peanuts you find at a ballpark. They’re soft, salty, slightly briny and wonderfully chewy. Made in an electric pressure cooker, they’re quicker to prepare than the traditional stovetop method and keep the kitchen cool on hot days.

Boiled peanuts are a seasonal treat, most commonly available in late spring through early fall when “green” peanuts (freshly dug and still moist) are sold at farmer’s markets and some international groceries. If you can’t find green peanuts, you can use raw peanuts, though cooking times and a short soak will be necessary.

What You’ll Need

• 2 pounds green peanuts (freshly harvested and still moist). If using raw peanuts, soak overnight and increase cook time.
• A scant 1/2 cup salt (start with just under 1/2 cup and adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon Zatarain’s Liquid Crab Boil or a similar boil seasoning (use sparingly for extra zest)
• Enough water to fully cover the peanuts in the pot

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Trim stems and rinse the peanuts thoroughly in a colander. Fresh peanuts may carry a soil smell, so rinse until the water runs clearer.
2. Place the rinsed peanuts into the Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker. Add the salt, Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and a small amount of the boil seasoning for extra flavor.
3. Pour in enough water to cover the peanuts. You’ll know you have enough when the peanuts begin to float as the pot fills.
4. If possible, use a steaming basket or rack to gently press the peanuts down so they stay submerged. This reduces floating and helps them cook evenly.
5. Seal the pot and cook on high pressure. For fresh green peanuts: 45 minutes followed by a natural release, or 60 minutes followed by a quick release. For raw peanuts that have been soaked overnight: increase cook time to around 80 minutes and allow a natural release.
6. When cooking is complete, transfer the peanuts along with some of the cooking liquid to a large container. Refrigerate for a few hours — many people prefer boiled peanuts chilled, as the flavors deepen.
7. To eat: suck the briny liquid from the shell, crack it open with your teeth, and enjoy the soft, savory peanut inside.

Serving, Variations, and Storage

Boiled peanuts are a casual, hands-on snack perfect for front-porch lounging, tailgates, picnics or any relaxed gathering. Serve them hot from the pot or chilled—both are traditional and delicious. For added variety, try increasing the crushed red pepper flakes for more heat, or add extra boil seasoning for a more pronounced citrusy-savory note.

Store leftovers in their cooking liquid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days. The peanuts will continue to absorb flavor as they sit, so taste and adjust seasoning before serving again.

Chef’s Tips

• Green peanuts are seasonal—buy them fresh during summer months for the best texture and flavor.
• If you can’t find green peanuts, raw peanuts will work after an overnight soak; expect to cook longer for the same tenderness.
• Use a steamer basket or heavy plate to keep peanuts submerged so they cook uniformly.
• Refrigerating the peanuts in their cooking liquid enhances flavor—many people prefer them chilled.