How can a peanut not be a nut? Well the clue is in the other part to its name,“pea”. Think of the way peas and edamame beans grow in a pod with a seam on their side. That is part of the definition of what makes a legume a legume (and not a nut). Also when you consider that peanuts grow underground rather than on trees as real nuts do, then you can start to see that it is not just a case of semantics. But, more importantly, let’s look at why these legumes might be of benefit to us in our diets.
You may know already that peanuts pack a powerful protein punch – at 25g per 100g they contain more protein than any “true” nut. But did you know that their antioxidant properties rival many fruits?
How about some spicy satay?
So there are no excuses! You can even have them in peanut candies, although the sugar and artificial ingredients may cause you more health concerns than health benefits.
The main concern is allergic reactions. If you know you are free of any peanut allergies be sure to check with guests before feeding them peanuts or food cooked with peanut oil. Peanut allergies untreated can even be fatal for some people.
Whilst there could be concerns about the overeating of peanuts providing too much fat (they contain nearly twice as much fat as protein) they contain no trans-fats and contain many other nutrients as well. For maximum health avoid salted peanuts. And if you are a vegan then beware that the honeyed variety may contain gelatin. Dry roasted, however, have no such problem.
Peanuts are versatile, filling and full of protein and other nutrients. If you are sensible about the amounts you eat then their fat content should mitigated. And for a protein boost to a vegetarian dish, or for added texture they can be sprinkled at your eating pleasure!