Hate to break it to you, but peanuts are actually legumes and not nuts. They belong to the same family as green peas, soybeans and lentils.
Curiously, even though peanuts are not a true nut, they have many of the same health benefits.
Studies show that peanuts help prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels. Peanuts can also stop small blood clots from forming, which reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Peanuts have also been associated with lowering type 2 diabetes risk in women.
The high fiber content of peanuts can help reduce inflammation and even promote better digestion. Peanuts are also packed with protein. And, while it’s true that peanuts have a large amount of fat, most of these fats actually help lower your cholesterol levels.
In the United States, about 50% of peanuts are consumed as peanut butter, although just eating peanuts whole is also popular.
Peanuts are favored in cooking due to their flavor and texture. Whole or chopped peanuts are especially popular in Asian cuisine and give satay sauce its addictive quality.
Peanuts also upgrade salads like this easy to make Indian Peanut Salad, which is healthy as well as very tasty.
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INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups raw peanuts
- 1/2 cup freshly grated coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup finely chopped coriander leaves
- 5-6 finely chopped mint leaves
- 1 finely green chili
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- Salt as per taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Step One
Wash and soak the peanuts in water for at least 6-8 hours or overnight.
Step Two
Put the peanuts, salt and water in a pan. Cover and cook for around 10-15 minutes. Discard water and allow the peanuts to reach room temperature. Remove the skin.
Step Three
In a bowl put all the ingredients, toss well. Check and adjust the seasoning.
Notes:
Removing the skin of peanuts is optional. You can also use peanuts with the skin. If you like the taste of raw soaked peanuts, no need to cook it.
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Also, keep in mind that while most people enjoy peanuts without issues, a peanut allergy is the most common food allergy in the United States, causing the majority of all food-allergy-related deaths.
A mild peanut allergy shows symptoms like itchy hives, nausea or swelling of the face. However, a severe peanut allergy can cause a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include trouble breathing; a change in alertness; nausea; vomiting; seizure; chest pain; swelling of the tongue, face or lips; extreme drowsiness; and feeling dizzy, confused or light-headed.
Talk to a doctor if you experience any uncomfortable feelings while eating peanuts. Seek immediate medical help for severe reactions.
(Source: greenbowl2soul.com)
