When it comes to choosing a quick, delicious, yet nutritious breakfast option, or a pre-workout snack packed with nutrients & healthy fats, peanut better is a popular choice.

Spread it on a slice of toast, smear it on hot parathas, or indulge in a spoonful of this lip-smacking snack when those hunger pangs strike! Peanut butter is relished by kids and adults alike.

Peanuts, the main ingredient used in the making of peanut butter is a nutritious nut that is a great source of high protein, fiber and healthy fats. Despite being calorie dense, peanuts are low in carbohydrates and hence also aid in weight loss when consumed in moderation.

This gooey spread of goodness is easily available in supermarkets; however, the store-bought ones are loaded with hidden sugars, preservatives, and hydrogenated vegetable fats. The best alternative is to make your own peanut butter at home. A simple process using easily available ingredients from your kitchen pantry, you can make the peanut butter either crunchy (with bits of coarsely ground peanuts to give it that nice crunch) or smooth (finely ground to create a smooth, creamy texture).

Here is the recipe of the smooth version of the peanut butter. Food processors works best for this recipe but it can be also be made in a mixie jar.

Ingredients:
500 gms unsalted peanuts, roasted and skinned
Salt, a pinch
Honey, according to taste (1 to 2 tbsp)
Olive oil, depending on the consistency required – Add 1 tbsp at a time

Method:
1. In a pan dry roast the peanuts until they turn a nice golden color
2. Cool down and remove the skin

3. Add all the ingredients in the food processor

4. Grind to a powder
5. Scrape down the sides of the food processor and mix well

6. Resume grinding for a minute
7. Stop, scrape down the sides, check for consistency and taste. Add more oil or honey if required.  Grind again.
8. Stop and check consistency again, if its too thick, add a little more olive oil

9. Keep grinding until you see it all coming together. The mixture should be smooth and thick but spreadable.

10. Once done, store the peanut butter in a glass jar or container. Keep it open until it completely cools down.

Notes:

1. If you don’t have olive oil, you can use any vegetable oil instead. However, in terms of health benefits, olive oil is the best option as it is rich in monounsaturated fats and high in antioxidants.
2. For a crunchy twist, grind the mixture coarsely and enjoy the nutty bits between bites!
3. It takes just 10 minutes to make a batch of peanut butter.

Tips:
1. Store the peanut butter in a glass container or jar for longer shelf life.
2. Does not require refrigeration, however each time use a dry and clean spoon to scoop out.