Are Japanese Peanuts Good for You?
So, are Japanese peanuts good for you? Well, I’ll tell you the answer right now. Yes! They’re absolutely delicious and healthy too!
Japanese peanuts are also called ‘Oshinko’ in Japanese. They grow in Asia, especially in Japan and China. The nuts are used in various recipes like desserts, snacks, salads, etc.
These peanuts are mainly made up of sugar and salt. They also have a lot of fiber content which helps in the digestion process. And yes, they do not contain cholesterol or saturated fats at all.
The nuts also contain antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene which help us maintain good health as we age.
So if you are looking for a snack that will boost your energy levels then go ahead and try some Japanese peanuts today!
Japanese Peanuts Have a Long History
I once questioned if Japanese peanuts were truly Japanese by one of my international friends.
To tell you the truth, I was taken aback. When a snack’s name includes a nation’s name, few people will wonder where it came from.
But, kudos to my friend for thinking outside the box. So, just like my buddy, the solution to this question can surprise you!
Prepare to be amazed, since Japanese peanuts did not originate in Japan! They came from Mexico. Yoshigei Nakatani, a Japanese immigrant residing in Mexico, invented the peanut in 1945.
All of this began in the nineteenth century when the Japanese began migrating to Mexico. Yoshigei Nakatani, a Japanese immigrant, married a Mexican lady. He used to reside in the capital’s Japanese quarter.
During his time in Japan, he learned how to make candy. As a result, he began making and selling candy here. “Muegano” was the name given to these sweets.
Later on, he added a new salty candy named “Oranda” to the mix. It mostly consisted of crunchy, sweet, and salty deep-fried wheat.
Yoshigei chose to incorporate certain tastes from his own nation of Japan as the business grew. He wanted to use soy and rice flour since they have such a strong effect on Japanese cuisine.
Because rice flours were difficult to get by in Mexico, he omitted them from the recipe.
As a consequence, he covered a single peanut in a thick layer of wheat flour, deep-fried it, and seasoned it with soy sauce, resulting in the Japanese peanuts we know today.
He did this to pay tribute to his homeland, and he sold these nuts on the wholesale market for 20 years. Following that, he established his own factory, which he named Nippon, which signifies Japan.
In conclusion, even though Japanese nuts were not invented in Japan, they were given the name because of the components and their affection for the country.
In Spain, these peanuts are known as mani japones or cacahuates japoneses, for your knowledge.
In any case, other substances are currently used to make cracker nuts. So now is the time to learn everything there is to know about this subject.
What Is the Process of Making Japanese Peanuts?
This question may amuse individuals who believe that Japanese peanuts are simply another type of Japanese nut.
It’s understandable because they have no idea that these are human inventions.
But you already know that they are merely nuts that have been coated with various chemicals to make them taste better.
I have described what they’re composed of, however, the Japanese peanuts formula has just changed slightly.
The crisp and crispy coating around the nuts is now usually made using a mixture of rice flour, wheat flour, sugar, and soy sauce. Also, to appeal to young consumers, roasted peanuts are poured into a kettle of flour with added color to make them seem like candy.
The crispy shell will shatter as you bite into them, and the only thing that will come out of your lips will be “yummy.”
So, don’t try to eat them in secret in classrooms or workplaces, since others will hear the cracking sound and you’ll have to share.
What are you going to do if the teacher catches you? Well, I suppose you can get out of the inquiry if you explain to him the nutritional features of Japanese peanuts.
So, how are you going to do it? You’ll need to read the following part to find out.
Nutrient Value of Japanese-Style Nuts
These nuts are not only tasty and crunchy, but they are also very healthy. Minerals such as iron, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus are abundant. They also have Niacin and vitamins in them.
As a result, consuming these nuts promotes appropriate blood flow and is beneficial to your brain.
So, do you already have the answer you need to offer your teacher, or do I need to give you a hint?
Let’s just assume that while you’re studying and thinking, you’re eating Japanese nuts to keep your brain in good working order!
Anyway, the story isn’t over yet. Furthermore, these cracker nuts contain a significant quantity of calories.
Japanese peanuts have roughly 140 calories per serving. It also has 15 grams of carbs, 50 milligrams of salt, and 6 milligrams of fat.
There is no cholesterol in them, and they are also high in iron. As a result, if you have high cholesterol, you can consume them without fear.
But hold on!! Wait!! There’s something you should be aware of. Eating a significant amount of Japanese peanuts at once might be unhealthy, especially if you’re attempting to reduce weight.
Does this imply that these nuts will cause you to acquire weight? Okay, I’ll give you a full response.
Are Japanese Peanuts Good for Weight Loss?
These nuts are a good choice for keto dieters since they are high in calories and protein.
If you’re on a diet and want something to eat in the evening, these nuts can be a smart choice. If you want, you check the 30 days high protein low carb diet plan for weight loss.
However, remember that eating too much of anything, even Japanese nuts can cause you to gain weight. As a result, you should eat them in moderation.
You may eat this as a protein-rich post-workout snack. However, if you’re trying to lose weight, I’d suggest finding something else to nibble on instead of these crackers.
You may consume fiber-rich foods that won’t spike your blood sugar and keep you feeling full for longer.
Because Japanese peanuts are high in fiber and have a flavor that makes you want to eat them all the time, it’s best to avoid them. Smoked soybeans, which are high in protein and fiber, are also a wonderful option.
People with specific health issues should avoid eating these nuts, by the way. Take a look at the information provided below.
People who should Stay Away from Japanese Nuts
If you are allergic to peanuts, it goes without saying that you should avoid them.
If you’re not sure if you’re allergic to it, search for symptoms such as a strange tingling feeling in your throat, a runny nose, and skin abnormalities such as irritation, redness, itching, and swelling.
So, always alert and prepared, since you never know when you’ll be faced with a situation like this.
Another thing to keep in mind is the quantity of salt you take in. Despite the fact that one serving of these nuts has just 50 grams of sodium, which is significantly less than the recommended daily intake, consuming more than a few handfuls might cause high blood pressure.
Furthermore, Japanese peanuts are wheat-based (which includes gluten). If you have celiac disease or a wheat allergy, you must avoid them.
Instead, I recommend that you visit Japan and sample some gluten-free cuisine. You may also read this article for a more in-depth look at the subject.
In any case, there are a variety of Japanese nuts accessible on the market presently. They also come in a variety of flavors. So, let’s see which one will satisfy your taste buds!
How to Make Homemade Japanese Peanuts
Are Japanese peanuts good for you? Giving its answer, here has included the Japanese peanuts making. Although store-bought nuts are nice, making them yourself maybe even better.
All of the components needed to create this snack are readily available at home. All you need are some peanuts and you’re ready to go.
Today I’m going to show you how to make Japanese peanuts with two different syrups. You can do both or at least one of them.
Ingredients used in both recipes:
- 1 kilogram of uncooked red-shelled peanuts
For the first syrup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- A quarter cup of water
- Baking soda (one teaspoon)
- Salt (one tablespoon)
- Wheat flour (two cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
To make the first syrup, follow these steps:
- Pour half a cup of water into a saucepan. Mix in the baking soda, salt, and sugar until they are completely dissolved.
To prepare the peanuts with the first syrup, follow these steps:
- On a large baking sheet, spread out the raw peanuts. Then, using the remaining syrup, gradually wet the nuts until they are well moistened.
- Sprinkle the wheat flour over the peanuts gradually.
- Place them in a strainer and shake to remove any extra flour.
- Then, in a separate baking dish, scatter the nuts evenly.
- Place the dish in a preheated (250°F) oven for 25 minutes, or until completely dry. You’ll need to stir the nuts every now and again.
- When the peanuts are gently browned and crispy, remove them from the oven.
- Save it for later or eat it as soon as it cools down.
For the second syrup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Half a cup soy sauce (mild) (American type)
- 1/2 tablespoon of butter
- 1/3 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon glutamate monosodium
- A quarter-teaspoon of salt
Making the second syrup is as follows:
- Pour the soy sauce, water, and sugar into a pan. Then, in the same pan, add the butter, monosodium glutamate, and salt and stir thoroughly. Bring the liquid up to a boil.
- Continue to cook the sauce in the pan until it thickens.
Steps to make the peanuts using the second syrup:
- Follow the same processes as for the final batch of peanuts, but use the second syrup instead of the first.
- The nuts cooked with both syrups are quite tasty. All you have to do now is prepare them and put an end to your hunger.
- Okay, our savory and enjoyable voyage has come to a conclusion. It’s now time to say your final words.
Different Types of Japanese Peanuts
Giving the answer – are Japanese peanuts good for you? After the innovation, Japanese-style nuts expanded and are no longer restricted to traditional forms and tastes.
They now come in a variety of forms, textures, and flavors. From wheat flour and rice to ikan bilis flour and seaweed, the coating has altered as well.
Wasabi and umami (savory) qualities dominate the flavor profile, which is enhanced when paired with salsa Valentina spicy sauce to highlight the Mexican origins.
Because of their crispy, crunchy, delectable sweetness with a punch of savory and fiery hotness, Japanese nuts have risen to the top of the gourmet food list in other areas of the world.
It’s also prevalent at Japanese cuisine festivals, and we locals never miss an opportunity to consume them when out and about. Of course, the nuts can also be found at a supermarket or convenience shop.
So, without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the various Japanese peanuts on the market.
1. De La Rose Japanese Nishiyama Peanuts
These are distinct from regular Japanese peanuts in that they have been seasoned and roasted to give them a unique flavor and texture.
It has a distinctive and spicy flavor because of the rice flour coating. They are fantastic partners if you wish to spice up your physique.
And you’ll just have to pay roughly $10 (USD) for a 900-gram package of this deliciousness.
Isn’t this a fantastic deal? After testing them out, you’ll see how valuable they are. You may also offer them to your guests, but I can’t guarantee there will be any left for you!
By the way, if you don’t like spicy crackers, there are alternative options available.
2. Island Snacks Japanese Peanuts
The island snacks are high in iron and have 140 calories in a single serving.
They are portable in size, so you may take them with you on your trip as a snack companion or pack them in a lunch box for your kids or yourself.
They have a delectable and refreshing flavor that will make you wonder why natural nuts don’t taste as good!
3. Sabritas Japanese Peanuts
Unbleached wheat flour, malted barley flour, sugar, modified food starch, soy sauce, and salt are used to make these crispy peanuts. You’ll be amazed by the deliciousness of each bite.
Try to keep them as a snack when viewing movies with your family, partner, or friends at home.
If you ask for my advice, I’ll tell you to keep a few packets for yourself since I believe they’ll consume all of the nuts in a flash!
4. Manzella Japanese Peanuts
Because of their easy packing, low price, and unrivaled yumminess, they are highly popular throughout the United States. During manufacture, these Manzella peanuts maintain excellent standards and are the result of only the best.
In fact, the company is so large that it has manufacturing facilities throughout Mexico. Keeping it there helps to preserve the origins and uniqueness of the flavor of these Japanese peanuts.
When coupled with tamarind chutney, salsa, or guacamole on toast, these Japanese peanuts may have an amazing flavor. The flavors work well together.
Bad Side of Eating Japanese Peanuts
The bad side of eating Japanese peanuts is that they have a high concentration of sodium and nitrates. These two things are harmful if consumed in large amounts.
Sodium is used by our body to send signals to the brain, but too much sodium can cause hypertension which is a condition where your blood pressure increases.
Nitrates are found in many foods including vegetables, meats, and even some medicines. Nitrates help reduce inflammation but when consumed in excess these chemicals can turn into nitrosamines which are extremely harmful to your body as they can cause cancer, heart disease, or even diabetes.
FAQ – Are Japanese Peanuts Good for You?
What makes Japanese peanuts different?
Japanese peanuts are deep-fried after being covered with wheat flour. Japanese peanuts in this manner are a popular snack in Japan, generally served with soy sauce.
Are Japanese peanuts spicy?
The flavor of Japanese-style peanuts is salty. It has a hint of sweetness to it, as well as a kick of fiery heat.
How long do Japanese peanuts last?
When preserved in the freezer, Japanese peanuts in the shell can survive for up to 24 months. It will keep in the fridge for approximately a year. In the pantry for roughly 4 months. Shelled freezer, on the other hand, has a four-week shelf life in the pantry. It will keep for 12 months in the refrigerator and 24 months in the freezer.
Are Japanese peanuts carbohydrate-free?
0.25 cup of Japanese nuts has 17 grams of total carbohydrates, 15 grams of net carbohydrates, 5 grams of fat, 5 grams of protein, and 130 calories.
Is it OK to consume the shell of Japanese peanuts?
Yes, the shells of Japanese peanuts may be eaten. The shell is just a wheat flour-based covering that is deep-fried over the nuts.
Conclusion
Giving the answer – are Japanese peanuts good for you? I’ve covered everything there is to know about Japanese peanuts in this article. I hope you will give them a try, whether you buy them or make them yourself. Finally, spend some time with your loved ones while munching on some crunchy snacks. See you later!
