Some Like It Hot

Well, my fickle self is already sitting slumped over and panting after a few days of 80 degree weather. I do like it warm - but I need to change a few habits - and quickly! We do not have central HVAC here in the new digs. One window unit and ceiling fans are all that stands between us and the sizzling Georgia heat. As much as I romanticized living without air conditioning in the book Eat Pray Love, it will take some getting used to. Problem one: I love to cook. I now have a gas range. I'm loving the instant heat on the cook top but BOY does it get hot in there! So that part about "Kissin'''' don't last, cookin' do?" Well, if we don't get another A/C unit, we may all go on a raw foods diet this summer! So much for cookin' around here (and kissin' too, if you get my drift). The other day, I decided to boil peanuts and bake banana muffins. After emerging from my sauna, I needed a cold glass of wine and a pool to plunge in. I don't think I'll be boiling peanuts all day again any time soon. Looks like my kitchen may need to move outside a good bit too. I guess Baxter will be the grill master and I the lovely lass, sipping on the porch. Well, the peanuts are good so I guess I'll share my method:

Hot Boiled Peanuts

1 pound green (raw) peanuts

1/4 cup kosher salt

2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning

8 cups water

Place all ingredients in a large pot on the stove and bring it to a boil. Cover and simmer for about 8 hours! It's a cheap and authentic southern offering for your guests to enjoy at cookouts, dinner parties or as a snack any time.