I love peanut butter. I love it on bananas. I love it on apples. I love it straight out of the jar with a spoon. It’s the perfect spread on just about everything. My favourite spicy salad dressings always include a good heaping spoonful of this nutty goodness.
(In fact my waistline can attest to the spoonfuls of peanut butter that I consume on a daily basis.)
I’ve been making my own peanut butter/nut butter since I bought my Vitamix a couple years ago. It’s surprisingly easy to make. Why didn’t I try this years ago in my food processor? My editor said she used to make it in her processor.
All you need …. peanuts and a high powered blender (or food processor). No oils or extra crap. My friends are always surprised when I tell them how simple it is to make. You can make a few years in less than 5 minutes. I fill my container about 3/4 full with peanuts and it yields at least three little mason jars. You can process for a shorter time if you want it a little chunky. I prefer smooth peanut butter so I process a tad longer.
There’s always some peanut butter clinging to the container that I hate to waste. So I follow my peanut butter making with a peanut butter smoothie. I scrape as much peanut as I can off the sides before adding either a cup of water or Almond milk. Then I add a scoop of chocolate Vega One and a banana.
After blending for about 10 seconds, I pour the smoothie in a mason jar with a few ice cubes. It’s a perfect fix but I warn you it is sweet!
DIY PEANUT BUTTER TIPS
Choose raw, organic and unsalted nuts when possible
Store in glass, never plastic
Process longer for a smoother taste
Do not add salt or oil
Experiment with other nuts to create a nut blend. I like cashew/peanut mix
Buy in bulk because you will save $$ and time
Share with your friends
Peanut or nut butter is a wonderful source of protein. I get asked all the time (and it drives me bonkers!) where do I get my protein as a vegetarian. Peanut butter is just one tasty source. I make my own because I can control what I put in it. There’s no added oils or salt. If I could I would grow my own peanuts but sadly I am not in a climate where that is possible.
I encourage you to try your hand at making your own nut butter (if you don’t already).
Homemade PB. GAMECHANGER. seriously!!!! it is sooooo my new favourite ANYTHING!!!! haha