THE NUTTY WORLD OF PEANUT BUTTER
Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with other foods, or used as a cooking ingredient, peanut butter holds a special place in the hearts and pantries of millions worldwide.
Flavors and Knowledge
Aug 4
Friends:
The ubiquitousness of peanut butter in American culture is due in large part to several people:
The first one is Dr. John Harvey Kellogg. In the late 19th century, he ran a highly respected Michigan sanitarium. He had many theories about nutrition and health, some of which have been proven correct by modern medicine and others considered strange today.
The second guy, George Washington Carver, encouraged southern farmers to grow peanuts when the boll weevil devastated cotton production in the South at the turn of the century. Carver improved the peanut plant’s growability and invented hundreds of uses.
The third guy would be George Bayle, a St. Louis businessman who began selling peanut butter as a snack food around this time. He sold tons of it during the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair; it was such a hit that Heinz began selling it nationally soon after.
As far as PB&J sandwiches, the earliest recipes for them come from the same period, the turn of the century. Manufacturers in the 1920s hydrogenated peanut butter for shelf stability and began to add sugar, which made it appealing to children. Sliced bread was developed around the same time. Sliced bread meant children could make sandwiches themselves without using a potentially dangerous knife. Due to low cost, high nutrition, and ease of assembly, peanut butter sandwiches became popular as child-friendly food during the Depression. {Trusted}
Peanut butter is a creamy, savory-sweet spread that has become a beloved American cuisine and culture staple. Its rich history can be traced back to the ancient Aztecs and Incas, who ground roasted peanuts into a paste. However, the peanut butter we know and love today emerged in the late 19th century.
Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a Reno physician and nutritionist, is credited with creating one of the earliest versions of peanut butter in the late 1800s. He developed it as a protein-rich food for patients in his sanitarium, and he and his brother, Will Keith Kellogg, patented a process for making peanut butter from raw peanuts in 1895. Another American, George Washington Carver, played a significant role in developing peanut butter by popularizing peanut agriculture and experimentation.
The mass production of peanut butter began in the early 20th century, thanks to advancements in food processing technology. In 1903, Dr. Ambrose Straub patented a peanut butter-making machine, which paved the way for its commercial production. Soon after, companies like Peter Pan and Skippy began producing and marketing peanut butter to the masses.
The production process of peanut butter is relatively simple. Still, specific steps are required to achieve the desired results. Raw peanuts are roasted to enhance their flavor and aroma. They are then cooled and shelled before being ground into a thick paste. Some manufacturers add salt, sugar, and other flavorings to enhance the taste. The peanut butter is homogenized to achieve its smooth texture and then packaged for distribution.
Throughout the 20th century, peanut butter became a staple in American households due to its affordability, versatility, and nutritional value. It’s a rich source of plant protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. Its popularity soared during World War II when the spread was included in soldiers’ rations for its high nutritional content.
Beyond its nutritional benefits, peanut butter has also achieved cult status in American cuisine and culture. It’s a key ingredient in iconic dishes like the peanut butter and jelly sandwich, a lunchtime favorite for generations of Americans.
The iconic American classic snack peanut butter & jelly
{Image Attribution via Anna Jakutajc-Wojtalik, Unsplash}
The versatile ingredient can be used creatively beyond just spreading it on bread. Here are some of my top 10 ideas, but I am sure you have many more personalized ones.
1. Peanut Butter Smoothie: Blend peanut butter with banana, Greek yogurt, milk (or a dairy-free alternative), and a touch of honey for a protein-packed and delicious smoothie.
2. Peanut Butter Energy Bites: Mix peanut butter with oats, honey, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips or dried fruit. Roll into small balls and refrigerate for a quick and healthy snack.
3. Peanut Butter Dipping Sauce: Combine peanut butter with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of lime juice to create a savory dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or grilled chicken skewers.
4. Peanut Butter Dressing: Whisk together peanut butter with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey for a flavorful Asian-inspired salad dressing.
5. Peanut Butter Granola: Incorporate peanut butter into your homemade granola recipe for an extra boost of flavor and protein. Mix it with oats, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of maple syrup before baking.
6. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi Rolls: Spread peanut butter and jelly onto a tortilla, roll it up tightly, and slice it into bite-sized pieces for a fun twist on traditional PB&J sandwiches.
7. Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates: Pit Medjool dates with a spoonful of peanut butter. Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet and salty treat.
8. Peanut Butter Marinade: Use peanut butter as a base for a marinade for grilled chicken or tofu. Combine it with soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili flakes for a flavorful kick.
9. Peanut Butter Ice Cream: Swirl peanut butter into homemade or store-bought vanilla ice cream for a creamy and indulgent treat.
10. Peanut Butter and Avocado Toast: Spread peanut butter on whole-grain toast and top with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of honey for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast or snack.
The final thought!
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Moreover, peanut butter has transcended its culinary role to become a symbol of nostalgia, comfort, and childhood. Its creamy texture and nutty flavor evoke memories of simpler times for many people, making it a beloved and enduring part of American culture. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with other foods, or used as a cooking ingredient, peanut butter holds a special place in the hearts and pantries of millions worldwide.
{Heading Image Attribution via Shashi Chaturvedula}
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