Peanuts are not actually nuts, but a form of legume. Peanuts fall into the same family as lentils, peas and beans. They are made up of a shell that contains two to three peanuts in each. Peanuts are a type of “groundnut” and do not grow on trees like; walnuts, cashews and almonds. Other names for peanuts are; pig nuts, earthnuts and monkey nuts.

More popular in the United States, there are different ways to eat peanuts including; roasted, cocktail snacks and plain with salt. They are also crushed and made into peanut butter that can be used as a spread or topping. It is common to boil peanuts in a small amount of salt water and eat them. Here are some facts about the calories in peanuts as well as the ways you can enjoy peanuts:

Calories in Peanuts

% DV refers to % Daily Value in a 2000 calorie diet.

Healthy Peanut Recipes

1. Boiled Peanuts

This spicy and flavorful recipe for peanuts actually cooks them like a bean. It also contains healthy protein and is low in carbs. Watch the video to learn how:

2. Honey Roasted Peanuts

Ingredients:

• 1/3 Cup White Sugar
• 1 ½ Tsp. Chipotle Chili Powder
• ¼ Tsp. Chili Powder
• ¼ Garlic Powder
• 2 Tbsp. Butter
• 2 Tbsp. Honey
• 1 Tsp. Kosher Salt
• 1 Pound Skinless Peanuts

Instructions:

• Heat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) and stir together chili powder, chipotle powder, garlic powder and sugar.
• In a large saucepan stir together; butter, kosher salt and honey over medium heat.
• Heat mixture until bubbly and stir in peanuts to coat.
• Place peanuts in a 13 x 9 baking dish. Bake in oven for 30 minutes, stirring often to maintain even coating.
• After peanuts turn golden brown, sprinkle with spice mixture and toss to coat. Allow to cool before eating.

Nutritional Value:

• Calories: 203
• Carbs: 12.5g 4% DV
• Fat: 15.6g 24% DV
• Protein: 6.8g 14% DV