You probably already know that FERIDIES® uses Virginia Peanuts, but you may not know why we use such a special nut. Heres a bit of background why FERIDIES® uses only the best nuts and why Virginia Peanuts are simply the best.
Peanuts are one of the most beloved snacks around the globe Their crunchy texture paired with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor makes them an irresistible treat But not all peanuts are created equal, The best peanuts strike the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, This got me wondering – what are the best peanuts in the world?
I embarked on a mission to discover the greatest peanuts from every corner of the world. Through extensive research and tasting I have narrowed down the contenders to just a handful of peanuts that stand out above the rest.
Virginia Peanuts – A Classic American Favorite
When you think of peanuts, the first place that probably comes to mind is Virginia. Virginia has ideal sandy, loamy soil and just the right climate to grow amazing peanuts. Virginia peanuts are larger in size with a signature crunchy texture.
The Peanut Shop, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, has been roasting peanuts since 1973. Their hand-cooked Virginia peanuts are lightly salted to enhance the peanuts’ natural nutty sweetness. Flavors like Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper add a tasty kick. Customers rave that these are simply the best peanuts they’ve ever tasted.
FERIDIES – World’s Finest Virginia Peanuts
FERIDIES is another Virginia-based company praised for their top-notch peanuts. Their commitment to quality shows through in every crunch. Only the largest, crunchiest nuts are selected and dry roasted in peanut oil. A light sprinkle of salt ensures you taste the peanuts’ natural flavor in every bite.
Aside from classic salted peanuts, FERIDIES offers exciting seasoned flavors like Thai Turmeric Chili and Hot Honey Chili. Their gift tins make excellent presents for peanut lovers.
Georgia Peanuts – An American Classic
While Virginia may be the peanut capital today, peanuts have been grown in Georgia since the 1800s. Georgia’s heat and humidity allow for bumper peanut crops. Georgia peanuts are known for being smaller and sweeter due to the climate.
Lewis Taylor Farms still grows certified Georgia peanuts in traditional ways. Their peanuts are cooked in a 1940s style peanut roaster for old-fashioned flavor. Flavors like Salty Sweet Cajun and Hot n’ Spicy give these nostalgic peanuts a kick.
Spanish Peanuts – A Nutty European Treat
While peanuts originated in South America, Spanish traders brought them to Europe and Africa. Spanish peanuts are grown mainly in Spain and Africa. They have a distinct elongated shape and reddish-brown papery skin.
Spanish peanuts have an incredibly robust, earthy peanut flavor. The skin adds a pleasant rustic crunch not found in blanched Virginia peanuts. Roasted Spanish peanuts are popular street food in Spain served hot in paper cones.
Chinese Peanuts – Asia’s Favorite Snack
In China, peanuts are enjoyed boiled, fried, roasted, and candied. Chinese peanuts are smaller and more oval shaped compared to American varieties. They have a unique flavor with hints of grassiness.
At outdoor markets in China you’ll find vendors roasting peanuts in large woks and seasoning them with mixtures like star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, and Chinese five-spice powder. The aromas are mouthwatering.
My Verdict on the Best Peanuts
After extensive tasting research, I have concluded that Virginia peanuts take the crown for the best peanuts in the world. Their large size, signature crunch, and robust peanut flavor is unmatched. Brands like The Peanut Shop and FERIDIES have perfected the art of Virginia peanut roasting.
However, peanuts from Georgia, China, and Spain should not be overlooked. Each region produces peanuts with unique traits shaped by local soils and customs. There are so many varieties to appreciate. While Virginia peanuts may be my personal favorite, peanuts of all origins have their own stellar qualities. The quest for the best peanuts reminds us that we have peanuts from all over the world to enjoy in their many delicious forms.
How are Virginia Peanuts Different from Other Types of Peanuts?
Virginia Peanuts are different from other types of peanuts when it comes to size and taste. They are the largest of all peanuts and have a distinctive crunch. Theyre also very flavorful. Virginia Peanuts are often called the “Ballpark Peanut” because theyre sold hot at baseball games. At FERIDIES® we choose the top 2 percent of the Virginia Peanuts to make up our gourmet peanuts and snacks.
What’s in a Name?
Virginia Peanuts arent just a designation for where the peanut is grown. Virginia Peanuts are a variety of peanut that is grown primarily in Virginia, but is also grown in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. These peanuts are one of four main types of peanuts grown in the United States. The other types of peanuts are Runner Peanuts, Spanish Peanuts, and Valencia Peanuts.
The World’s Best Peanuts
FAQ
Where are the best peanuts in the world?
The world’s best roasted peanuts are grown and harvested right here in our home state of Virginia. Even so, each peanut must pass our strict scrutiny. We select only the finest ones and dry roast in the shell to perfection.
Which is the best quality of peanuts?
Kirkland Peanuts – Hands down, best peanut’s out there.
Which country produces the best peanuts?
More than half of the world’s peanuts are grown in India and China. The United States produces about 3% of the world’s acreage of peanuts, but grows nearly 10% of the world’s crop because of higher yields per acre.
What is the best peanut to eat?
Honey roasted peanuts and peanuts in general are the best.