Is there any difference between peanut and groundnut or do these two words mean the same? To understand the true meaning of peanut and groundnut, we’ll tell about the popular and delicious oilseeds. Groundnuts are often a staple in many diets, especially in regions like Africa and Asia, where their versatility and nutritional benefits shine. This article will delve into the distinctions between these two terms, providing clarity to anyone confused about them.
In a broad sense, groundnut is a big family of different plant oilseeds that combines numerous titles. This word can stand for various types of dry seeds (hard, tasty, and oily), including arachis, bambara groundnut, hausa groundnut, peanut, and others. By saying ‘groundnut’ or adding this term into a meal recipe, you can mean peanuts or other types of nuts or even tuber roots with beans that can be eaten raw, cooked, or turned into food supplements for people or animals.
Since groundnuts are extremely popular in Nigeria and all across Africa, we will explain the difference between peanut and groundnut. It is easy to understand once you learn some details about both words. Groundnut encompasses a variety of legumes that grow underground, while peanut specifically refers to the species Arachis hypogaea. Understanding this will help clear up any confusion surrounding these terms and allow you to appreciate the uniqueness of each type of oilseed.
Peanut and Groundnut
While many of us use groundnut as a synonym for peanut, the full meaning of groundnuts is much wider. This is a family of different pea plants, and each plant has its own botanical name. Groundnut is a food plant. It is not exactly a nut. It refers to underground peas because the main oilseed we love to eat grows and ripens in the soil, not on the surface.
Here are some of the most interesting types of groundnut (in the wider sense of this term):
- Peanut or Arachis hypogaea
- Geocarpa groundnut or Macrotyloma geocarpum
- Bambara nut or Vigna subterranea
- Tiger nuts or Aya Hausa
- Other types of roots, tubers, and oilseeds that grow underground, look hard, small in size and contain oil
Peanut’s Botanical Name
Peanut represents only one kind of the groundnut’s family. It is a particular type of oilseed and it has a straightforward meaning, while also carrying a botanical name of Arachis hypogaea. Many people give peanuts different names. These popular nuts covered with a cute pink or brown skin and hidden inside a pod are often called groundnut, monkey nut, earthnut, goober nut, and so on.
Understanding these names helps to appreciate the cultural significance and culinary uses of peanuts around the world. For instance, in various regions, peanuts are used in different recipes, snacks, and dishes, making them a versatile ingredient in cooking.
Exploring the Differences
Everything depends on the meaning you give to these words. Those of us who enjoy cooking desserts, cakes, and other meals with nuts may use peanut and groundnut as synonyms. However, for those who are passionate about specific flavors and textures, the differences are substantial. Groundnut can refer to a broader category of underground legumes, while peanuts are a specific type of groundnut.
This distinction is important, especially in culinary contexts. Here are two ways to think about groundnut and peanut plants:
- You can understand the two words as synonyms for Arachis.
- You can call peanut a particular type of groundnuts and treat groundnut as a big family of different pea plants, tubers, and roots.
Both groundnuts and peanuts share similarities, yet they serve different culinary and nutritional purposes. Groundnuts often serve as cooking oil or herbal supplements, while peanuts can be eaten raw or fried. However, peanuts can be turned into peanut butter or snacks to be used as a food supplement by humans.
Final Thoughts
Now you know the difference between peanut and groundnut. Peanuts are delicious types of groundnuts, and groundnuts usually refer to multiple oilseed plants that can serve different purposes for both people and animals. Understanding these distinctions can enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of these versatile foods.
READ ALSO: 10 health benefits of groundnut
