Cook: Ms. Smith Comes to Tampa Boiled Peanut Hummus

It was suggested one time in Cedar Key that, "A person hasn't experienced Florida unless they've tried boiled peanuts." It took me seven years but I finally "experienced" Florida. As I slurped one peanut down after another I was surprised to find the texture and taste oddly reminiscent of a bean. I thought nothing more of this similarity until a Facebook response suggested that if I made boiled peanut hummus there would be a willing taste tester. Brilliant idea! So that's exactly what I did on Sunday (between the potatoes and homemade Oreos).

Ms. Smith Comes to Tampa Boiled Peanut Hummus
(printable version)

-1 lb of peanuts
-pot of water
-salt
-Cajun seasoning
-1 Tbs. olive oil
-1/4 cup water
-2 garlic cloves
-Cajun seasoning (to taste)
-salt (to taste)
-parsley
-pita

1. Place peanuts in a huge pot. Fill the pot almost to the top with water. Pour in some salt and Cajun seasoning. Place a lid upside down on the pot (if you filled the water high enough this will hold the peanuts under). Boil for six hours adding more water as necessary.

2. Drain the peanuts in a colander. Allow to cool. Remove the nuts from the shell and place in a food processor. Once all peanuts have been removed, discard the shells.

3. Pour olive oil, garlic, water, Cajun seasoning and salt in food processor. Pulse until peanuts are smooth (add more water if you would like the hummus smoother). Garnish with parsley.

4. Serve on top of toasted pita. Open wide and experience Florida.