Crunchy Peanut Butter
Crunchy Peanut Butter Recipe from the USA
Introduction
Crunchy peanut butter is a delicious spread that adds a satisfying crunch to any dish. Made with just two simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for peanut butter lovers.
History
Peanut butter has been a staple in American households for decades, with the first commercial peanut butter being introduced in the late 1800s. Crunchy peanut butter, with its added texture from chopped peanuts, became popular in the mid-20th century as a variation on the smooth version.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Measure 1.5 cups of peanuts and set aside.
- Pour the remaining peanuts into the container of a blender.
- Cover the blender and blend on low speed until the peanuts are chopped.
- Add butter, cover the blender, and blend on low speed for 15 seconds.
- Turn off the blender and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula.
- Cover the blender and blend on low speed for 5 seconds.
- Repeat this process 3 or 4 times until the peanut butter starts to become smooth.
- Cover the blender and blend on the highest speed for 1 minute.
- Add the remaining peanuts, cover the blender, and blend on moderate speed for 3 – 5 seconds.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Add honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- Mix in cinnamon or cocoa powder for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use salted peanuts for the best flavor.
- Blend the peanuts on low speed to avoid overheating the blender.
- Refrigerate the peanut butter before serving to allow it to firm up.
Serving Suggestions
Spread crunchy peanut butter on toast, use it as a dip for apples or celery, or add it to smoothies for a nutty flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Blending the peanuts on low speed and scraping down the sides of the blender are key techniques for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use unsalted peanuts and add a pinch of salt to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Make Ahead Tips
Crunchy peanut butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Presentation Ideas
Serve crunchy peanut butter in a small bowl with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Crunchy peanut butter pairs well with jelly, bananas, chocolate, and pretzels for a delicious snack.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store crunchy peanut butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, let it come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of crunchy peanut butter contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of crunchy peanut butter contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of crunchy peanut butter contains approximately 16 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of crunchy peanut butter contains approximately 7 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Peanuts are a good source of vitamin E, niacin, folate, and magnesium.
Alergens
Peanuts are a common allergen and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Summary
Crunchy peanut butter is a nutritious spread that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Crunchy peanut butter is a versatile and delicious spread that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can make your own homemade peanut butter that is sure to impress.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Crunchy Peanut Butter. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. Martha was known for her delicious homemade jams and jellies, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.
As we sat sipping on ice-cold lemonade, Martha suddenly jumped up from her seat and rummaged through her pantry. She pulled out a jar of peanuts and a food processor, and with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she declared, "I'm going to show you how to make the best crunchy peanut butter you've ever tasted!"
I watched in awe as Martha expertly roasted the peanuts in a skillet until they were golden and fragrant. The kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of toasted nuts, and I couldn't wait to see what she would do next. Martha poured the peanuts into the food processor and added a pinch of salt and a drizzle of honey before turning on the machine.
The peanuts whirred and whizzed, gradually transforming into a thick, creamy paste. Martha paused to scrape down the sides of the bowl, then added a handful of chopped peanuts for a deliciously crunchy texture. With a final pulse of the processor, the peanut butter was ready.
I eagerly dipped a spoon into the creamy mixture and took a taste. The flavor was out of this world – nutty, sweet, and irresistibly crunchy. I couldn't believe how easy it was to make homemade peanut butter, and I knew I had to learn Martha's recipe.
Over the next few weeks, I practiced making Crunchy Peanut Butter in my own kitchen, tweaking Martha's recipe to suit my taste. I experimented with different types of honey, added a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth, and even tossed in a handful of chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
I shared my homemade peanut butter with friends and family, who couldn't get enough of its addictive flavor and crunchy texture. They begged me for the recipe, and I happily obliged, passing on Martha's creation with pride.
As the years went by, Crunchy Peanut Butter became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for breakfast spread on warm toast, for snacks smeared on apple slices, and for dessert drizzled over ice cream. The versatility of homemade peanut butter never ceased to amaze me, and I loved coming up with new ways to enjoy it.
I continued to learn new recipes and techniques from Martha and other friends and family members, each one adding to my culinary repertoire. Whether it was a secret family recipe for lasagna, a traditional method for pickling cucumbers, or a creative twist on a classic dessert, I soaked up every bit of knowledge like a sponge.
But Crunchy Peanut Butter remained a special recipe for me, a reminder of that fateful day in Martha's kitchen when I discovered the joy of homemade food. It brought back memories of laughter, friendship, and the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.
Now, as I pass on Martha's recipe to a new generation, I hope that they will find as much joy in making Crunchy Peanut Butter as I have. May they create lasting memories in their own kitchens, sharing the love and warmth of homemade food with those they hold dear. And may they always remember the simple pleasure of a jar of peanut butter, made with their own two hands and a sprinkle of magic.