Peanuts are often celebrated for their wealth of vitamins and nutrients, earning them the reputation of a “longevity nut” due to their significant health benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, they are valued for their ability to enrich the blood, aid digestion, and stop bleeding effectively.
Nowadays, two main types of peanuts are widely available: red-skinned and white-skinned. While it’s common to assume that both share the same taste and nutritional profile, they actually have notable differences.
1. Flavor Differences
Red-skinned peanuts are known for their naturally sweet taste, especially when fresh. This makes them perfect for soups, nut milk, and other recipes. They are believed to boost energy and enrich blood, making them a great choice for raw consumption.
White-skinned peanuts, however, are famous for their crunchy texture, making them excellent for frying and snacks. Due to their higher oil content, they are favored for making peanut oil or peanut butter. They are also lower in calories, making them an appealing option for those looking to manage their weight.
2. Nutritional Differences
Red-skinned peanuts are acclaimed for boosting blood and energy levels. It is recommended to keep the skin on, as it promotes digestive health and can relieve bloating and discomfort.
White-skinned peanuts, meanwhile, contain more calcium, benefiting the elderly and children. They help in the body’s absorption of phospholipids, essential trace elements like selenium, and vitamin E, all of which enhance brain health and memory. Due to their larger size and greater yield, they are often more budget-friendly in the market.
Now that you are aware of these differences between red-skinned and white-skinned peanuts…
More importantly, here’s how to choose quality peanuts.
While size is not a definitive indicator of quality, here are some key factors to consider:
Color: For both red and white-skinned varieties, select peanuts with a bright, fresh shell color. Steer clear of those with black or dark spots, as these signs may indicate mold or contamination by Aspergillus flavus, a mold that is both carcinogenic and detrimental to flavor and safety.
Shell Tension: The shells of well-dried, mature peanuts should be firm and plump. Immature peanuts often dry out and become shriveled, resulting in lower nutritional value. For the best quality, opt for peanuts with taut, shiny shells.
Scent: Take a moment to smell a handful of peanuts. If there’s any hint of moldy scent, avoid purchasing them regardless of the price.
Peanut Sprout: Inspect the small white spot at the top of the peanut, known as the sprout. If this spot is missing, the peanuts might have undergone a dyeing process, and it is advisable to avoid them.
