Is Peanut a Vegetable?
Peanut is an widely used food ingredient, usually added in salads, sauces or other type of recipes. But is peanut a vegetable?
A Legume?
First of all, peanut belongs to the family of Leguminosae. Legumes are vegetables that are part of the Fabaceae (or Leguminosae) family and grow inside a pod. Peanut grows inside a hard outer shell, with the kernel, seed, endosperm and husk that encloses it inside.
Vegetable or Not?
Peanuts are nutritionally different from vegetables, as they are filled with healthy fats (like Omega-3, Omega-6, Vitamin E, etc) as well as proteins and fibers. For this reason, peanuts are usually classified as nuts, not vegetables.
In conclusion, peanuts are considered as a nut, not a vegetable.
Health Benefits of Peanuts
Peanuts may be a nut, but they can still provide some amazing health benefits:
- High in vitamins and minerals, like copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium.
- A great source of plant-based protein.
- Excellent source of healthy fats like Omega-3 and Omega-6.
- Can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancers.
- Can aid in weight management.
So, even though peanuts are not considered as a vegetable, they still have a lot of amazing health benefits and are a great way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your diet.
