Made boiled peanuts. My little trick is to crack them all More work, but I like the brine getting inside easier

Started with about 4-5 pounds of raw peanuts, a handful of star anise...

A little Chinese five spice...

A couple of handfuls of sea salt...

Added water to cover and brought to a boil...

Simmered for an hour or so. Peanuts were just the right texture, but needed more salt. So added more salt and let it sit in the hot brine. Flavor was good, but the peanuts were a little soft. But we still eat it!

Refrigerating firmed the texture.