How to Make Homemade Peanut Butter (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Homemade Peanut Butter, known as मूँगफली मक्खन in Hindi, is a simple yet delightful spread that has become a staple in many Indian households. While peanuts (मूँगफली) are native to South India, the practice of grinding roasted peanuts into a creamy butter has found its place in modern Indian kitchens, offering both taste and nutrition. Its rich, nutty flavor makes it perfect for spreading on multigrain rotis, whole wheat bread, or even as a dip with fresh fruits like banana or apple slices. In India, homemade peanut butter is prized for its freshness, purity, and adaptability—free from preservatives and artificial sweeteners. It’s an excellent alternative to store-bought spreads, especially for families seeking healthy, vegetarian options. Preparing this at home allows customization with jaggery (गुड़) for natural sweetness, a hint of Himalayan pink salt, or even a dash of desi ghee for added richness. This versatile spread is packed with protein, making it perfect for busy mornings, tiffin boxes, or as a mid-day energy booster during festivals like Makar Sankranti, when peanuts are consumed in abundance.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Dry roast the raw peanuts on a heavy-bottomed tawa or kadhai over m...
Dry roast the raw peanuts on a heavy-bottomed tawa or kadhai over medium heat until golden brown and aromatic, about 8-10 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Step 2 · Let the roasted peanuts cool completely
Let the roasted peanuts cool completely. Rub them between your palms to remove the skins. Discard the skins.
Step 3 · Transfer the peeled peanuts to a mixer grinder or food processor
Transfer the peeled peanuts to a mixer grinder or food processor. Pulse for 30 seconds, scrape the sides, and repeat until the peanuts turn into a coarse powder.
Step 4 · Continue grinding
Continue grinding, adding a teaspoon of cold-pressed groundnut oil or desi ghee if needed, until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This may take 3-5 minutes, with intermittent scraping.
Step 5 · Mix in Himalayan pink salt
Mix in Himalayan pink salt, jaggery powder, honey, flaxseed powder, or cinnamon as preferred. Blend again for uniform flavor.
Step 6 · Transfer the homemade peanut butter to a clean
Transfer the homemade peanut butter to a clean, airtight glass jar. Let it rest for an hour at room temperature before using.
Step 7 · Store in the refrigerator for longer shelf life
Store in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Stir well before each use as natural oil separation may occur.
Why this recipe is healthy
This recipe uses minimal ingredients and natural sweeteners like jaggery and honey, making it lower in refined sugars and unhealthy fats. The addition of flaxseed enhances omega-3 content, supporting brain and heart health. Since it's vegetarian and can be made vegan, it's suitable for most diets. Homemade Peanut Butter provides sustained energy, supports muscle recovery, and aids in weight management when eaten in moderation.
A note on tradition
Peanuts are widely cultivated in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Homemade peanut butter has gained popularity as a nutritious spread during Indian festivals like Makar Sankranti, when peanuts and jaggery are traditionally consumed. It is also a popular choice for school tiffins and as a pre-workout snack. The adaptability of this spread means it can be enjoyed across regions, each adding their own touch with spices or sweeteners.