Making Peanut Butter at home

We know there are tons of options out there in the store, but what if you want to know how to make peanut butter at home? Now this is simple and allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking. Here is how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts (unsalted)
• 1-2 tablespoons peanut oil (or other neutral oil)
• Salt (optional)
• Honey or sweetener (optional, for sweetened peanut butter)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Peanuts (Optional):
   • If you’re using raw peanuts, you can roast them for enhanced flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the peanuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the peanuts are golden brown. Allow them to cool before proceeding.
2. Blend the Peanuts:
   • Place the roasted (or dry roasted) peanuts in a food processor or high-powered blender.
3. Process the Peanuts:
   • Start processing the peanuts on low speed, gradually increasing the speed as the peanuts break down.
   • You’ll notice the peanuts will first turn into a coarse, crumbly texture. Keep blending, scraping down the sides of the processor or blender as needed.
4. Add Oil:
   • As the peanuts continue to blend, they will release their natural oils and start to come together. At this point, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of peanut oil (or another neutral oil like vegetable or grapeseed oil). This helps create a smoother texture.
5. Continue Blending:
   • Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This might take a few minutes, depending on your equipment and the desired consistency. You can also pause occasionally to check the texture and scrape down the sides.
6. Adjust Flavor and Sweetness:
   • Taste the peanut butter and add a pinch of salt if desired. If you prefer sweetened peanut butter, you can add a drizzle of honey or your preferred sweetener and blend again to combine.
7. Storage:
   • Transfer the homemade peanut butter to a clean and airtight jar or container. Store it in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Homemade peanut butter might separate over time, so give it a good stir before each use.