Peanuts travel around the world and complete the full circle. It adjusts itself in every culinary and sneaks into every dish. The origin mainly lies in South America and peanuts were taken to Europe and then head to Asia and then come back to America. Thus, we can say that peanuts spread their magic everywhere.
But do you know that they are widely used in every dish too? This has changed the world a lot. But have you ever wondered how this became a special family bean and an important food you knew?
Today’s Biggest Peanut Producers
According to the American Peanut Council, the world produces roughly 29 million metric tons of peanuts annually, with the United States coming in third place behind China and India. However, the biggest exporter of peanuts worldwide is the United States. This is because, according to the Council, most peanuts cultivated in China and India are used domestically to make peanut oil. More than 50% world’s peanuts are crushed every year which will further turn into cooking oil.
Georgia, Texas, and Alabama are leading producers of peanuts and Dothan become a hub of production of the grown peanuts in the United States. Every year, Dothan organizes a peanut festival in which they honor the farmers and celebrate the harvesting time of it.
From Asia to Europe – Peanuts Spread Roots Everywhere
Do you know that the widespread use of peanuts makes it the most interesting food ever? So, let’s find out the places and regions of peanuts and how it is used in different regions differently.
In Asia, it’s a flavor of celebration! Indonesia’s gado-gado salad gets a crunch from crushed peanuts, while Thailand whips them into creamy curries and fiery stir-fries. Vietnam even uses them in their famous pho!
• Africa, the peanuts home, shows off some serious skills. Ghana simmers them into a hearty groundnut soup, while Nigeria rocks them in peanut butter stew. And Senegal? Maafe, a peanut butter stew that’ll blow your socks off, is their king!
• Latin America throws a peanut party too! Argentina gives chimichurri, their famous steak sauce, a nutty twist. Peru uses it to garnish the chicken in a creamy peanut sauce called ají de gallina, and Brazil makes candies that’ll taste like a heaven.
• Europe isn’t left out either! Italy uses peanuts in pesto, while Spain builds them into nougat candy called turrón. France even uses peanuts to duck dishes!
So, we can say that peanuts have been used in different countries in distinct dishes and become a companion for everyone. In India, peanut oil is found to be a healthy factor because it brings protein to your bones. So, we can say that using it for food not only adds taste but also contributes to overall health development.
Benefits of peanuts – you should know about it
Do you know that peanuts are used for both – nutrition and malnutrition? It is a surprise pack and punch of health benefits. It contains a powerhouse of nutrients, shelf-stable protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants and brings you the power to deal with diseases. Also, they are affordable and can be added to your diet easily.
Here are all the benefits of Peanuts that you should know:
• Protein with healthy fats: Peanuts are the best plant-based protein source, supporting muscle building, weight management, and skeletal health. Peanuts are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and lower bad cholesterol. It also promotes a healthy heart.
• Fiber and Vitamin: Both soluble and insoluble fiber in peanuts contribute to digestion, gut health, and feeling fuller for longer. Peanuts are rich and good sources of vitamins like B, E, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. It would help in body function too.
• Heart Health: Peanuts’ healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants like resveratrol reduce heart disease risk and improve blood sugar control.
• Weight Management: Their satiating protein and fiber content helps you feel full and control calorie intake.
• Brain, Bone, and Liver Health: Certain nutrients in peanuts may enhance cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. The rich source of magnesium and other minerals contributes in strong and healthy bone. The antioxidants and nutrients present in peanuts protect the liver damage too.
Also, you need to moderate the consumption of peanuts because excessive consumption of peanuts can cause certain issues like weight gain or allergic reactions. Thus, before consuming it you should consult with the health professionals.
Ending Note
With time, peanut production increases and cultivates the maximum profit for the farmers. They grow in almost any soil, fix the ground, and make protein-packed peanut butter for folks who need it most. You can cultivate it at home too. So, if you want to bring a health factor into your life, peanuts should be your next add-on.
So, we have found that peanuts are the true companion of many dishes in Asia, Africa, America, and Europe. They are not just bringing up the yummy bites to us but also help in making us fit and healthy.
Peanuts not only give you relief from instant hunger but also add some nutrition to your life. But remember it should be intake in a limited zone else you might face some issues and problems with your health. Please verify its intake before adding too much in your dietary plan.
