peanut butter

peanut butter Peanut butter spread on sandwich bread


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Description

Peanut butter is a nut butter made from finely grinding dry roasted peanuts into paste. It originated in South America but has become a staple in American households, with the United States being the leading exporter.

It is often seasoned with a little salt and sweetener (e.g. sugar, honey), and oil is sometimes added to enhance its spreadability. It can be found in smooth and chunky varieties. It is used to make sandwiches, dressings, sauces, and desserts.

Peanuts can cause severe allergic reactions, and for this reason peanut butter been banned at many day cares and schools.

Nutritional Info

Peanuts are legumes and are relatively high in protein and vitamins B3 (niacin) and E. It also contains a lot of fat--mostly monounsaturated fats, and to a lesser degree polyunsaturated fats followed by saturated fats. (See the USDA's nutrition index.)

Storage

Fresh peanut butter should be refrigerated after opening while many commercial brands can be kept in the pantry.