Peanuts are grown in tropical and subtropical climates. They need much sunshine, warm temperature, moderate rainfall, and a frost-free growing period of 4 to 5 months. They thrive best in light, well drained, sandy soil.
Peanuts are left whole, crushed, ground or made into a paste. They are available slated or unsalted, peeled or unpeeled, dry or honey-roasted, and coated in chocolate or oil.
Although there are many varieties to be found, the most common include the Spanish, Valencia and Virginia peanuts.
The peanut is a key ingredients of varieties of cuisines: served with meat, fish, and poultry, peanuts are also used to flavor soups, sauces, salads, simmered dishes and desserts.
Approximately two thirds of the world’s output of peanuts is made into oil. Three of the principle direct uses of peanuts in food products in the United States are:
*Peanut butter
*Salted peanuts
*Peanut candies
Peanuts
