Georgia’s food culture includes items such as peaches, pecans, and barbecue, but experts suggest that peanuts should also be included on that list. Peanuts are a key part of Georgia’s economy, with the state growing more than half of the peanuts in the United States. According to Don Koehler, executive director of the Georgia Peanut Commission, peanuts are not only delicious but also good for preventing heart disease. Peanuts are not native to Georgia, but they have a long and interesting history, originating in South America and making their way to Europe, Africa, and eventually to Georgia.
Peanuts played an important role in Indigenous cultures in South America, where they were featured on pottery and used in spiritual rituals. European explorers brought peanuts with them to Europe, where they quickly became popular, and later to Africa, where they remain staples of West African cuisine. In the 18th century, slaves from West Africa brought peanuts to Georgia, where the climate proved to be ideal for peanut growth. Today, Georgia is the official state crop and grows about 52% of the peanuts in the United States, with nearly 1.5 million tons produced annually by approximately 4,000 peanut farmers.
The state’s passion for peanuts is evident in the creative dishes served throughout Augusta, Georgia, home of singer James Brown and the Masters Tournament. Several restaurants in the area serve peanut butter pies, with the French Market Grille’s frozen peanut butter pie being a particularly iconic dish. The pie, made in-house from scratch, is described as a “decadent delight.” Another local eatery, Whiskey Bar Kitchen, serves a burger topped with peanut butter, showcasing the versatility of this beloved legume. Don Koehler, of the Georgia Peanut Commission, expressed his love for extra-crunchy peanut butter, which he enjoys almost every day.
The use of peanuts in Georgia’s culinary scene highlights the important role that this crop plays in the state’s economy and culture. From sweet treats like peanut butter pie to savory dishes like peanut butter-topped burgers, peanuts are a versatile and beloved ingredient in Georgia cuisine. The history of peanuts in Georgia is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this crop, which has its origins in South America but has become a staple in Southern cooking. Georgia’s peanut farmers continue to produce large quantities of this crop, with former President Jimmy Carter being one of the most well-known peanut farmers in the state.
The health benefits of peanuts, including their ability to prevent heart disease, make them not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to one’s diet. Peanuts have a rich and complex history, originating in South America and traveling to Europe, Africa, and eventually to Georgia. The state’s climate has proven to be ideal for peanut growth, making Georgia a major producer of peanuts in the United States. The passion for peanuts in Georgia is evident in the creative dishes served in local restaurants, showcasing the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved legume. Whether enjoyed in a sweet dessert or as a savory burger topping, peanuts play a significant role in Georgia’s food culture.
