PEANUTS
Peanuts
aka the Groundnuts (mungfali) are widely used not only in Indian Kitchen but
also in various cuisines around the world. Though it has 'nuts' in its name but
it is not actually a nut. It is a pulse and comes from legume family. It is
grown in tropical and subtropical regions. Groundnut is the major oil seed crop
in India. Next to China India is the second largest producer of Peanuts in
Asia. It not only has crunchy, nutty taste but also have a number of health
benefits. So lets check out what peanut has-
BENEFITS:-
·
They
are rich in energy.
(because it contains potassium, minerals, vitamins, zinc,
magnesium, anti-oxidants etc.)
·
Calorie
content-approx.576 calories per 100 grams.
·
It
is a good source of monosaturated fats (MUFA).
·
Lowers
bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol.
·
Some
poly-phenolic anti-oxidants are present in peanuts which fights against
diseases like- Heart diseases, nervous diseases, Alzheimer's diseases and
Infections.
·
It
makes the skin smooth. ( helps to look young!)
DRAWBACKS:-
·
Can
cause allergic reactions.
·
highly
susceptible to contamination. ( never leave it open especially in humid areas.
Molds can contaminate it.)
HOW TO BUY:-
·
If
buying unshelled then look for off-white color, compact and healthy looking
shell.
·
It
should be uniform in size and should feel heavy in hand.
·
Always
buy unsalted peanuts.
STORAGE TIP:-
Store it in air-tight container and place it in cool dry place.
PREPARATION AND SERVING:-
·
It
can be consumed rather I'd say can be enjoyed boiled, salted, sweetened or even
roasted.
·
In
India we use it in various dishes. ( In vegetables, dal , for garnishing or
also for stuffing).
·
Peanut
Butter made from peanuts is widely used as spreads for sandwich or we have it
with crepe's.
Lets check out how can we use peanuts to cook vegetables.
Peanuts not only will give a nice crunch but also it will enhance the
taste of vegetables. We can use it in many stuff vegetables. Here's a recipe of
Stuff Ivy Gourd aka Kundru/Tondli in which we used peanuts for its
stuffing.
For recipe click the link given below and do not forget to try
it.
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