Although there are hundreds of groundnut varieties available in India, few peanut varieties are particularly popular due to their nutritional value and
chemical properties that make them ideal for all kinds of uses.
The major Indian peanut-growing states of Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan each have
unique characteristics and specialisations when it comes to the groundnut varieties they grow.
Virginia groundnuts are the largest variety and have a pale color. They’re commonly used to make peanut butter due to their high oil content.
Runner groundnuts are the most common type of groundnut and have a reddish-brown skin. They’re often used for roasting, snacking, and making peanut butter.
Spanish groundnuts are smaller than other types and have a reddish-brown skin. They’re often used for making candies, as well as in some traditional Mexican dishes.
Valencia groundnuts have a thin shell and are smaller than Virginia groundnuts. They have a sweet flavor and are often used for roasting and boiling.
Tennessee Red groundnuts have a red skin and are known for their nutty flavor. They’re often used for making boiled peanuts.
Jungle groundnuts are a wild variety of groundnuts that are found in the Amazon rainforest. They have a unique flavor and are often used in South American cuisine.
These are just a few of the many types of groundnuts out there. Whether you’re a fan of Virginia groundnuts for your peanut butter or prefer the nutty flavor of Tennessee Red, there’s a type of groundnut out there to suit your tastes. So next time you’re snacking on some groundnuts, take a moment to appreciate the variety and complexity of this humble legume.
