Mala Fried Peanuts Recipes

Steps:

• If using unblanched (skin-on) peanuts, place in a medium bowl and pour in water to cover. Let soak at least 6 hours and up to 12 hours. Drain peanuts, then rub off skins with paper towels if needed.
• Arrange peanuts on a rimmed baking sheet and freeze at least 2 hours and up to 12 hours (this will dehydrate the nuts so that they crisp faster when fried). If using blanched peanuts, skip the soaking and freeze directly.
• Place frozen peanuts in a wok or medium pot and pour in oil to cover by ¼". Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until peanuts are golden brown and float to the surface, 15-20 minutes. Using a spider or slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Let oil cool. Transfer all but 1 tsp. oil to an airtight container; save for another use.
• Add sliced chiles, whole chiles, and whole Sichuan peppercorns to skillet with oil and heat over medium-high, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 2 minutes (don't let the chiles brown-you want them to stay red). Mix in peanuts, salt, sugar, Five-Spice Powder, ground Sichuan peppercorns, and white pepper (if using). Transfer to a small bowl; let cool.
• Do Ahead: Peanuts can be made 3 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Steps:

• Put at least 1 inch of oil in a deep, fairly narrow saucepan and turn the heat to medium-high. When the oil reaches 300°F (this is on the cool side for frying; be careful not to overheat), add the peanuts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are a rich golden brown, about 5 minutes.
• Remove the peanuts with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt. Strain and save the oil (covered and refrigerated) for another use; it will be great for using in stir-fries. Serve at room temperature.
• Cook the peanuts with 6 unpeeled garlic cloves and 4 small dried red chiles. Drain and season with salt and fresh lime juice to taste.
• Combine 1 teaspoon curry powder (pages 592-593), 1/2 teaspoon superfine sugar, and salt and cayenne to taste. Cook the peanuts as directed and sprinkle on the spice mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
• Combine 1 teaspoon garam masala (page 594) with salt and cayenne to taste. Cook the peanuts as directed and sprinkle on the spice mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Steps:

• Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Cook peanuts in preheated oil until fragrant and hot, about 2 minutes. Transfer to paper-towel lined plates to drain. Season peanuts with salt.