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*2 cups peanut butter

Nuts & SeedsYear-round; peanuts are harvested annually in late summer and fall, but peanut butter is shelf-stable and available consistently throughout the year.

Peanut butter is an excellent source of plant-based protein and healthy monounsaturated fats, along with significant amounts of vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

About

Peanut butter is a paste made from ground roasted peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), legumes native to South America but now widely cultivated globally. The peanuts are shelled, roasted, and mechanically ground until their natural oils release and bind the particles into a smooth or chunky paste. Commercial varieties may include added ingredients such as sugar, salt, hydrogenated oils, and stabilizers, while natural peanut butter contains only peanuts and occasionally salt. The flavor profile ranges from mild and sweet (in commercial varieties) to intense and earthy (in natural preparations).

Culinary Uses

Peanut butter serves as both a primary ingredient and flavor base across diverse cuisines. In North American cooking, it appears in sandwiches, baked goods, sauces, and confections. Asian cuisines employ peanut butter or ground peanut paste in satay sauces, noodle dishes, and curry preparations. The ingredient functions as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and protein source in soups, marinades, and dressings. It pairs effectively with chocolate, fruit, savory spices, and fermented condiments like soy sauce and fish sauce.