Peanuts, often called groundnuts, are a fantastic source of vitamins and nutrients and have earned the nickname “longevity nut” due to their health benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, they are celebrated for their ability to regulate digestion, improve blood health, and even stop bleeding.
Nowadays, two types of peanuts stand out as the most popular: red-skinned and white-skinned peanuts. Many people assume they are identical in taste and nutrition since they both belong to the peanut family, but significant differences exist between them.
Understanding Flavor Differences
Red-skinned peanuts bring a naturally sweet taste, particularly when freshly harvested. This unique sweetness makes them an excellent option for making nut milk, adding to soups, and more. They are also known to boost energy and enrich blood, making them suitable for eating raw.
In contrast, white-skinned peanuts offer a crunchy texture, often used for frying or in snacks. Known for their higher oil content, they are popular in the production of peanut oil and butter. Additionally, those looking to watch their calorie intake might prefer white-skinned peanuts, as they tend to be lower in calories.
Nutritional Differences at a Glance
Red-skinned peanuts are renowned for their energy-boosting properties. Nutritionists suggest eating them with their skin, which is beneficial for digestion and helps reduce bloating or stomach discomfort.
Conversely, white-skinned peanuts provide more calcium, making them more beneficial for older adults and children. They also aid in absorbing phospholipids and trace elements such as selenium and vitamin E, all essential for brain health and memory enhancement. White-skinned varieties, due to their larger size and higher yield, are also generally more affordable.
Buying High-Quality Peanuts
Knowing the differences between these peanuts is just one part of making a smart purchase. Here are some tips to ensure you choose high-quality products:
The Color Factor
Regardless of whether you are buying red or white-skinned peanuts, always opt for those with a fresh and bright shell color. Dark or black spots on the peanuts are red flags, often indicating mold or contamination with Aspergillus flavus, which is carcinogenic and affects taste and safety.
Check the Shell Tension
Mature and dried peanuts should have a firm and plump shell, whereas immature ones tend to wrinkle and lose nutritional value. Choose peanuts with a taut and shiny shell for the best quality experience.
The Importance of Scent
Before buying, take a moment to smell a handful of peanuts. Fresh ones should have a subtle, earthy scent. A moldy smell is a definite sign to steer clear, no matter how attractive the price might be.
The Peanut Sprout Trick
A lesser-known tip is to inspect the small white spot at the tip of the peanut, known as the sprout. If this is missing, the peanuts may have been dyed, so it’s best to avoid these.
