by Sheryl Borden PEANUT BASICS FOR THE PEANUT LOVER
Since we're coming upon the season for harvesting peanuts, perhaps some information concerning this unique legume would be of interest. Gayle Stephenson, spokesperson with the Texas Peanut Producers Board in Gorman, TX, will be a guest on Creative Living on Tuesday, October 2nd at 12:00 noon and on Saturday, October 6th at 2:00 p.m. to discuss this topic.
According to Stephenson, "Botanically, peanuts are classified as a legume, but qualify as a nut because of their biochemistry and nutritive content. It is absolutely essential that we have some fat in the diet in order for our bodies to function properly. The polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats contained in peanuts and peanut oil reduce blood cholesterol."
Peanuts are a good source of fiber. Diets high in fiber are recommended to reduce the risk of cancer. Nutrient dense, peanuts are 26% protein. Almost one-half of the 13 essential Recommended Daily Intake of vitamins is found in 1 ounce of peanuts. Packed with a powerhouse of nutrition, peanuts contain potassium, phosphorous, niacin, thiamin, and zinc.
Peanuts are a high satiety food; they do not raise blood sugar levels and are recommended for diabetic diets. Peanuts are also very versatile, as evidenced by the following recipes.
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter
2 cups roasted shelled peanuts* (with or without red skins)
1 Tbsp. peanut oil
1/2 tsp. salt (optional)
Using the metal blade, process ingredients continuously for 2 or 3 minutes. The ground peanuts will form a ball which will slowly disappear. Continue to process until the desired consistency is obtained. Note: for chunky style peanut butter, stir in 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts after the processing is completed. Makes 1 cup smooth or 1 1/2 cups chunky peanut butter.
Apricot Peanut Spread
1 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup apricot preserves
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, choppedMix all ingredients in bowl. Serve with crackers, raw vegetables or apples. Yield: 2 cups.
Gayle Stephenson, (left) Texas Peanut Producers Board, will share some delicious peanut recipes and peanut history when she appears as a guest on Creative Living. Shown with Stephenson is Sheryl Borden, producer/host of the show.
Sheryl Borden is the Producer and host of the PBS series, Creative Living with Sheryl Borden. Celebrating its 23rd year, the magazine-formatted "how-to" show is produced by KENW-TV in Portales, New Mexico and is carried in 40 states and 100 markets. It airs on KENW (Channel 3) on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12 noon, Tuesday evenings at 9:30 PM, and on Saturdays at 2 PM.
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