Boiled Peanuts

Put one cup of salt per gallon of water in a big pot. Add the Cajun seasoning, if desired. Add the raw peanuts. Cover and bring the peanuts to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 4 to 6 hours, or until the peanuts are very tender.

To test, open the shell and taste.

Turn off the heat and transfer the peanuts to a large clean bowl. Serve immediately or store them in jars or sealable bags with some of the cooking liquid to keep them moist. They should keep in the refrigerator for about a week.