Name: Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486112H11M23S
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 pounds raw green peanuts (fresh or thawed); 3 cups pickle brine; 3 cups water; 3–4 garlic cloves, smashed; 2 tablespoons dill weed or 3 tablespoons fresh dill; 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste); 1–2 teaspoons pickling spices (optional); 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional); 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or liquid smoke (optional); Additional fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary) to taste (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts bring together two popular Southern flavors: the creamy, nutty taste of boiled peanuts and the bold tang of dill pickle brine. Whether you’re looking for a snack that’s both savory and slightly spicy or something to serve at a barbecue or party, these peanuts offer a fresh twist on a classic. They’re gluten-free, vegan-friendly (if using vegan pickling spices), and can be easily customized with additional spices or sweetness for a more personalized taste. The slow-boiling process allows the flavors to really sink in, creating a snack that’s irresistibly good.

Ingredients

2 pounds raw green peanuts (fresh or thawed)
3 cups pickle brine
3 cups water
3–4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 tablespoons dill weed or 3 tablespoons fresh dill
1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)

Optional Ingredients:

1–2 teaspoons pickling spices (mustard seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves, etc.)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce (for a spicy twist)
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (for a sweet & tangy variation)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a few drops liquid smoke (for smoky flavor)
Additional fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary) to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Peanuts: Rinse the raw green peanuts under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. If using frozen peanuts, allow them to thaw completely before cooking to ensure even softness.
Mix the Brine: In a large pot, combine the pickle brine and water in equal parts to fully cover the peanuts. Add the smashed garlic cloves, dill weed or fresh dill, salt, and any optional pickling spices you desire. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Boil the Peanuts: Add the peanuts to the simmering brine mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the peanuts reach your desired tenderness. Stir occasionally, and add more water as necessary to keep the peanuts submerged.
Taste and Adjust: Sample a few peanuts to check for flavor and texture. Adjust the salt or spices to your liking and continue cooking for a softer texture if desired.
Cool and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the peanuts to cool in the brine. This allows the flavors to fully absorb into the peanuts. Serve warm or chilled, and garnish with fresh dill or cracked black pepper, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2.5 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Variations

Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the brine for a spicy kick.
Sweet & Tangy: For a sweet variation, add 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the brine.
Smoky: Try adding 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
Extra Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to add a fragrant twist to your boiled peanuts.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts in the brine in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the peanuts for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm the peanuts in some brine or water to retain their moisture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use dry roasted peanuts for this recipe?

No, dry roasted peanuts will not soften properly when boiled. It’s best to use raw green peanuts, either fresh or thawed from frozen.

2. How do I know when the peanuts are done cooking?

The peanuts should be tender and creamy on the inside, with the skins easily peeling away. Taste a few to check their softness and adjust the cooking time if needed.

3. Can I make these peanuts in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook them in a slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours, or until the peanuts reach your desired tenderness.

4. Can I use store-bought pickle brine?

Yes, you can use store-bought pickle brine for convenience. Just make sure it’s a brine you enjoy, as it will be the base flavor for your peanuts.

5. How spicy are Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts?

The spice level depends on the amount of crushed red pepper or hot sauce you add. If you prefer a milder taste, skip the spicy ingredients altogether.

6. Can I add other spices to the brine?

Yes! Pickling spices like mustard seeds, peppercorns, and bay leaves work well. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

7. How long should I let the peanuts sit in the brine after cooking?

Allowing the peanuts to cool and soak in the brine for a few hours or overnight will intensify the flavors.

8. Can I freeze Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts?

Yes, you can freeze the peanuts in their brine for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the brine or water.

9. Can I make these peanuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them sit in the brine to enhance their flavor.

10. What can I serve Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts with?

They make a great snack on their own or as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or parties. You can also serve them with other Southern favorites like cornbread or fried chicken.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts are a Southern classic with a twist. Whether you’re looking for a fun, flavorful snack for a gathering or just something unique to enjoy, this recipe brings together the best of tangy pickle brine and soft, creamy peanuts. With endless customization options and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your snack repertoire.