Cooking Instructions:

Rinse the peanuts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. If using dried peanuts, soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to guarantee they cook properly.

In a large pot, add the rinsed peanuts and cover them with water. Make sure there's enough water to submerge the peanuts completely, as they'll absorb some of it during cooking.

Stir in the salt, and if desired, add any optional spices or seasonings. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the peanuts simmer for 2 to 4 hours, depending on whether you're using green or dried peanuts. Green peanuts will take about 2 to 3 hours, while dried peanuts may take up to 4 hours to become tender.

Check the peanuts periodically for doneness. They should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. When they're cooked to your liking, remove the pot from heat and let the peanuts sit in the salty water for an additional 30 minutes to absorb more flavor.

Drain the peanuts and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your boiled peanuts as a delicious snack!

For the best results, remember that boiling times can vary based on the type and size of the peanuts. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning to the boiling water.

Also, feel free to customize the salt level based on your preference; just keep in mind that boiled peanuts are traditionally quite salty. Enjoy your culinary adventure!