Roasting Peanuts In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Roasted peanuts are a delicious snack, but roasting them in the oven can be a tedious and time-consuming process. Luckily, you can make them in an air fryer with minimal effort and in a fraction of the time. This guide will teach you how to make crunchy, flavourful, and perfectly roasted peanuts in your air fryer.

Air fryer roasted peanuts recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups raw peanuts (with or without skin)
• 1 tablespoon oil (or cooking spray)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon coarse sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 320-330°F/160-170°C for 3-5 minutes.
• In a mixing bowl, add the oil, salt, and any other desired seasonings. Mix well.
• Add the raw peanuts to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the oil and spice mixture.
• Spread the peanuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry at 300°F/149°C for 5 minutes. Then, shake the basket and loosen the peanuts.
• Increase the temperature to 350°F/177°C and air fry for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Remove the roasted peanuts from the air fryer and let them cool in a large bowl or plate to room temperature. This will help them get crispier.
• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or up to a month in the refrigerator.

Tips:

• Feel free to experiment with different spice blends such as Cajun seasoning, honey-chili, or garlic powder.
• Keep an eye on the peanuts while they are cooking to prevent burning.
• The time it takes to roast the peanuts may vary depending on the quantity and your air fryer model.

Benefits of making roasted peanuts in an air fryer

Roasting peanuts in an air fryer has many benefits. Here are some reasons why you might want to try it:

Time-saving

Air fryer roasted peanuts are a quick and easy snack to make. The cooking time is short, and there is no need for constant stirring or monitoring. You can simply toss the peanuts in the air fryer and let it do its job while you focus on other tasks. This makes it a convenient option for those with busy schedules who don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Customization

With an air fryer, you have the freedom to customize your roasted peanuts to your liking. You can experiment with different seasonings and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. Whether you like them sweet, spicy, salty, or a mix of everything, the possibilities are endless. You can also control the amount of oil used in the recipe, making it healthier if desired.

Health Benefits

Peanuts are a nutritious snack, packed with protein, minerals, and fiber. Roasting them in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it requires minimal oil. This method of preparation retains the nutritional benefits of peanuts while giving them a delicious crunchy texture.

Convenience

Air fryer roasted peanuts are a mess-free option compared to traditional roasting methods. The entire process is contained within the air fryer, resulting in minimal cleanup afterward. Additionally, the compact nature of an air fryer means it can be easily stored in your kitchen, taking up less space than a traditional oven.

Versatility

Air fryer roasted peanuts are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. You can season them to your liking and serve them as a standalone snack, or use them as a tasty addition to salads, trail mixes, or even baked goods. They can also be stored for later consumption, making them a convenient option for on-the-go snacking.

How to roast peanuts in an air fryer

Roasting peanuts in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. It's a great way to make a tasty snack with minimal fuss and clean-up. Plus, you get to control the ingredients and experiment with different flavours.

Ingredients

You will need:

• Raw peanuts
• Oil (olive oil, cooking spray, or melted butter)
• Salt
• Seasoning of your choice (e.g. taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cajun seasoning, or honey)

Step-by-Step Guide

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 320-330°F (160-165°C) and preheat for about 3 minutes.
• Prepare the peanuts: In a bowl, add a small amount of oil, just enough to coat the peanuts. You can also melt some butter and mix in your chosen spices to create a spice blend. Toss the peanuts in the oil or spice blend until they are evenly coated.
• Roast the peanuts: Place the coated peanuts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Roast at the preheated temperature for about 7-10 minutes.
• Toss and continue roasting: After the initial roast, remove the basket and give it a good shake or toss to ensure even cooking. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the peanuts are golden brown.
• Cool and serve: Take the roasted peanuts out of the air fryer and let them cool in a large bowl or plate at room temperature. This step will help them get crispier. You can serve them immediately or store them for later.

Tips:

• The amount of oil or butter you use will depend on how many peanuts you are roasting. A light coating is usually enough, as peanuts release their natural oils during roasting.
• Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to find your favourite flavour combinations.
• For sweeter peanuts, add some granulated sugar to the mix.
• Remember that every air fryer is slightly different, so keep an eye on your peanuts as they roast to avoid burning.
• If you want to store your roasted peanuts, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about a week at room temperature, several months in the refrigerator, or over a year in the freezer.

Storing roasted peanuts

Roasted peanuts are best stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place such as a pantry. This will prevent them from becoming rancid or developing mould. Avoid storing roasted peanuts in humid areas, as moisture will cause them to rot prematurely.

It is also important to allow roasted peanuts to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent condensation from making the peanuts turn soft.

At room temperature, roasted peanuts can be stored in an airtight container or a glass storage container for about a week. In the refrigerator, roasted peanuts can be stored in an airtight food container for about six months. If you don't plan on eating them for a long time, storing them in the freezer will keep them fresh for at least a year or more.

Flavour combinations for roasted peanuts

Roasted peanuts are a delicious snack, and you can make them even more mouth-watering by adding different flavours and spices. Here are some flavour combinations to try when roasting peanuts in your air fryer:

Salt and Pepper

A classic combination, and for good reason. The sharpness of the pepper is balanced by the saltiness of the, well, salt. This combination is a great way to enhance the natural flavour of the peanuts without overwhelming them.

Cayenne Pepper

If you like your snacks spicy, cayenne pepper is a great choice. It adds a nice kick to the peanuts without being too overpowering. You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your taste, but be careful not to add too much, as a little goes a long way.

Sugar and Spice

For a sweet and savoury treat, try adding some sugar to your roasted peanuts, along with a spice like cumin or chilli powder. This combination creates a delicious contrast of flavours that will keep your taste buds guessing.

Garlic

Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can add a savoury kick to your roasted peanuts. You can use garlic powder or roasted garlic, depending on your preference. Just be aware that a little garlic goes a long way, so you don't need to add too much to get that garlicky flavour.

Piri-Piri

Piri-piri is a spicy spice mix from South Africa. It gives the peanuts a nice kick, and the blend of different spices adds a complex flavour that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Taco Seasoning

If you're a fan of Mexican food, why not try adding some taco seasoning to your roasted peanuts? It's a fun and unexpected twist that will bring a smile to your face.

So, there you have it! Some flavour combinations to try the next time you roast peanuts in your air fryer. Get creative, experiment, and most importantly, have fun!

Frequently asked questions