Peanuts are a high-protein legume that thrives in warm climates. Spanish, Valencia, and Virginia are the three most popular types of peanuts. Peanuts are used to make peanut butter, oil, milk, and used in both sweet and savory cooking. Roasted peanuts are a filling and satisfying snack.

I cannot talk about peanut without mentioning George Washington Carver. Mr. Carver invented over 300 various uses for the humble peanut. These inventions include peanut milk, dyes, plastics, cosmetics, soap, paper, and flour. These inventions are now commonplace in everyday life.

He also invented crop rotation, an essential agricultural technology that prevented soil depletion, which was commonplace among cotton farmers. Growing cotton created depleted and exhausted fields which made growing other crops impossible. By using Mr. Carver`s crop rotation technology, exhausted fields could be revived with nitrogen-rich crops such as peanut and sweet potatoes. Whenever you see a peanut, think of and thank George Washington Carver.

Health Benefits of Peanuts

Peanuts are rich in protein and healthy fats. Locally grown peanuts are your best option for attaining most of the natural health benefits of peanuts. You can also find B vitamins, folic acid, and antioxidants. The papery red skins of the peanut aid in digestions, so think twice before discarding the peanut skin.

Here are few simple recipes using peanuts:

Peanut Milk: blending roasted peanuts with water. Sweeten if desired.

Peanut Butter: blend roasted peanuts in a food processor with a pinch of salt until smooth.

What is your favorite way to consume peanuts? Let me know in the comments. Do you enjoy reading whole-food guides like this? Then read my other guides here.