Peanuts: rediscover them through surprising pairings!

A “wow” profile

While peanuts need no introduction, let's start by debunking a persistent myth: no, peanuts are not nuts! They actually belong to the large legume family. Another common belief is that peanuts and peanut butter are very high in sodium. In fact, salted, oil-roasted peanuts contain less salt than a slice of bread or a bagel. That puts things into perspective! That said, to better control your sodium intake, it's always best to choose unsalted peanuts or 100% natural peanut butter with no added salt.

Here are some good reasons to love this food:

• It is a source of plant-based protein (it even contains more than nuts of all varieties);
• It provides good fats that are beneficial for heart health;
• It contains several vitamins and minerals (vitamins B and E, magnesium, iron, etc.);
• It is rich in fiber;
• Its glycemic index is low.

Peanuts are also a great way to feel full. Thanks to their combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, a handful of peanuts or a spoonful of peanut butter can help curb hunger pangs for longer. They are therefore an excellent snack option for athletes and growing children, or simply to tide you over between meals.

Peanut butter and whaaat?!

Who hasn't had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in their lunchbox? For many, this classic evokes childhood memories, impromptu picnics, or even quick snacks. Peanut butter has this unique ability to find its way into every meal, and has done so for generations. It nourishes, comforts, and makes us smile. It's no surprise, then, that it remains so popular and widely consumed in Quebec. It's estimated that 41% of Quebecers eat peanuts at least once a week, and 61% consume peanut butter with the same frequency. This is higher than in the rest of Canada (36% and 59%).

Peanut butter keeps well at room temperature, but if it's natural, you can extend its freshness by storing it in the refrigerator. And to prevent the oil from separating on the surface, turn the jar upside down once it's closed. A simple little trick that makes all the difference!

Another tip: when a jar is almost empty and the leftover peanut butter has hardened, add a splash of warm milk or plant-based milk and whisk to create a quick sauce. Nothing is wasted, everything is transformed!

The versatility of peanut butter is virtually limitless. It can be incorporated into a Thai salad dressing or a marinade for chicken or tofu before grilling, used as a base for a creamy sauce for spring rolls or dumplings, transformed into cookies or energy balls with dates, oats, and chocolate, and much more! In the spirit of the Canadian Peanut Bureau's Peanut Butter and whaaat?! campaign, which highlights unexpected and delicious pairings, discover six surprising combinations to try with peanut butter.

• 1. Peanut butter and pickle toast

Perhaps you've seen this rather unusual pairing circulating on social media? In any case, peanut butter-spread toast topped with dill pickle slices is, according to many, a surprisingly delightful combination. Dare to try it! (Psst! There are many other ways to reinvent toast: peanut butter, tomatoes, and cheese, or peanut butter, avocado, and sesame seeds, for example.)

• 2. Peanut butter and chicken pizza

A peanut butter pizza? Yes, you read that right! The idea is to combine a sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, lime, and honey with toppings like chicken, cilantro, and green onion on naan bread to create a pizza with Asian flavors. Pretty cool, huh?

• 3. Peanut butter ramen soup

Putting peanut butter in ramen soup broth, weird? Absolutely not! Combined with coconut milk and other tasty flavorings (garlic, miso, tamari, sriracha, etc.), it gives a smooth texture and an irresistible aroma to this popular soup.

• 4. Peanut butter scrambled eggs

This is an idea that might raise a few eyebrows, but it's worth a try. The idea is to incorporate about 5 ml (1 tsp) of peanut butter into each beaten egg to give the eggs a velvety texture and a delicate nutty flavor.

• 5. Peanut butter grilled cheese, cheese and apples

A potentially unsettling sweet and savory trio, but definitely a winner!

• 6. Coleslaw with peanut butter

The recipe name might sound strange, but it's a real treat. The idea is to create a "satay"-style coleslaw by combining shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, green onions, and a peanut sauce. Pure genius!

For even more creative and surprising recipes, go here!