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Peanuts are prized by many Brazilians as a snack or side dish, and they provide health benefits when eaten fresh or minimally processed. As Carnival approaches, it becomes an excellent food option to replenish energy from one celebration to another, without spending a lot.
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Rich in minerals, fibre, vitamins and healthy fats, it is also a valuable source of vegetable protein, zinc, folic acid, magnesium, omega-3 and phytosterols.
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However, moderation is essential, as excess can lead to health problems and weight gain. A study revealed that most Brazilians are not aware of its nutritional properties, and believe that it consists only of fats and harmful cholesterol.
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Peanuts come from South America, but today the world's largest producer is China. There are several species, but the two main ones are the common peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and the Japanese peanut (Arachis glabrata). Let's find out some ways to consume this delicacy.
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Roasted Peanuts with Salt – Consumed globally, they are very common in snacks in the USA. It contains approximately 600 calories per 100 grams. A popular appetizer that balances crunch and flavour.
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Japanese peanuts (crunchy snack) – coated in a crunchy coating and seasoned with soy sauce. Inspired by Japanese flavours, today it is a worldwide hit. About 121 calories per 25 grams. Popular as a snack at parties and events.
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Chocolate Covered Peanuts – With a classic combination of textures, they're sweet and crunchy. Popular in many regions, especially as a treat or dessert. About 150 calories per 30 grams.
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Peanut Butter – Peanut-based cream, usually without added sugar. It is very popular among gym goers and is widely consumed in the USA. About 180 calories per 2 tablespoons. A source of protein and fibre, the paste can be used in many recipes.
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Cajozinho – a traditional Brazilian dessert, which is a mixture of peanuts, chocolate and condensed milk. It is especially associated with birthday parties. About 86 calories per unit. The name is due to the shape that resembles a small cashew nut.
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Paçoca – contains peanuts, sugar and salt, and is usually in the form of cylinders. Tradition in June festivals in Brazil. About 110 calories per unit.
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Cereal bars with peanuts – a mixture of peanuts, dried fruit, granola and other nutritious ingredients. It can be found easily, and is a great alternative to snacks, because it is practical and energetic. It ranges from 126 to 200 calories per bar, depending on the composition.
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Peanut Ice Cream – A great option for hot days, it is a delicious dessert. Ideal for home preparation, it contains approximately 92 calories per 27 grams.
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Pe do Molec – A mixture of peanuts and rapadura, it is very popular in Brazil, especially during the June festivals. Pé-de-Moleque appeared in the mid-16th century, with the cultivation of sugar cane in Brazil. It contains approximately 81 calories in 16 grams.
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Spiced Peanuts – Coated in a blend of spices with a variety of herbs and flavors. With approximately 86 calories per 15 grams, it is a good snack option to carry in your bag to enjoy your favorite bite.
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Peanuts for baking – Ground or chopped peanuts are used in the preparation of cakes and pies. Versatile and delicious, it adds a special and sophisticated touch to dessert decorations.
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Peanut butter – a paste obtained by grinding peanuts with added sugar. It is popularly consumed in the United States, spread on bread with jam. It contains about 588 calories per 100 grams, and is a source of healthy fats and proteins when consumed in moderation.
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Peanut cake – a great choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack, goes well with tea, milk or coffee. Try adding condensed milk syrup to make the cake more moist.
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Peanut jam – made with glucose syrup, unlike bacuka, it has a firmer consistency and does not crumble as easily. It is usually cut into a thinner disc shape. About 89 calories in a 20 gram serving.
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Raw peanuts – When raw, in addition to being consumed naturally, they can be roasted, salted, or caramelized with cocoa. It is used to make plant-based milk and peanut butter. Every 15 grams contains 86 calories.
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Peanut Puff – This dessert can go crazy on your table, because it's easy and practical, as well as delicious. Very creamy like all pavés, it is crunchy because of the peanuts, giving it a special touch thanks to its wonderful, enveloping flavour.
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We close the gallery with a warning. Before eating peanuts, it is important to make sure you are not allergic. Peanuts are part of a select list of foods that are among the most common for people with allergies – along with milk, eggs, tree nuts, wheat, fish and seafood.
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If there are no restrictions, it's worth a tip: peanuts are delicious and cheap (there are 25g packets for R$1 – sometimes 2 units for R$2) and can be easily found in markets, sweet shops, newsstands and street vendors.
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A good way to replenish energy to face the carnival masses and samba schools' performances.
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