Peanut

Guide Note

Peanuts are a vastly popular food staple that are eaten by themselves, creamed into peanut butter, and refined into peanut oil. First found in South America, peanuts have become an essential part of many people's diets worldwide. They are a key ingredient of the nutritional supplement Plumpy'nut, which is given to starving children in underdeveloped nations.

Fast Facts

1. Native to South America
2. Legume, not a nut
3. Also called: Earthnuts, Goobers, Pinders, Manila Nuts
4. Rich in protein and resveratrol
5. Matures underground
6. Related to peas, lentils, chickpeas

Peanuts have many important nutritious qualities, including 30 grams of protein per cup. Peanuts are also high in manganese, niacin and copper. They are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which help lower Cholesterol. Newer studies indicate peanuts contain antioxidants.

1. Boiled peanuts
2. Salted roasted peanuts
3. Peanut butter
4. Peanut brittle
5. Peanut butter cookies
6. Fried peanuts
7. Added to Chinese, Thai dishes
8. Peanut oil
9. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich