https://nationalpeanutboard.org/peanut-info/history-boiled-peanuts-from-necessity-to-southern-delica
cy.htm
When or why Southerners started boiling peanuts no one knows exactly. But good ideas have a way of spreading and, today, Southerners know how great boiled peanuts are. Not only are boiled peanuts called “the caviar of the South,” but they are also the official state snack of South Carolina. From Labor Day on into the holiday season, boiled peanuts are abundantly available at roadside stands, gas stations, ball games, festivals, and anywhere else people gather for fun.
History gives us clues about the origin and growth of the popularity of boiled peanuts.
Colonial Days:
Peanuts were first brought to America by slaves from Africa and the practice of boiling peanuts probably originated here. If there was a surplus peanut crop, field workers would hold a “peanut boil” to celebrate with shared conversation and food.
