Effect of boiling on quality, microstructure and flavor of fresh peanuts

This study systematically examines changes in the nutritional composition, microstructure, and flavor profile of fresh peanuts after boiling, identifying Jihuatian 1 as the most suitable variety due to its superior quality. Boiling significantly reduced its fat (19.73%), sucrose (42.21%), and hardness (49.11%), while increasing brittleness (59.85%) and aldehyde-type flavor compounds. These changes resulted in a distinct sweet, nutty, and floral aroma. From a microscopic perspective, boiling causes damage to the surface of peanut cells, partial rupture of cell walls and loss of cytoplasm, promoting the release of nutrients. Lipid oxidation reduces the content of unsaturated fatty acids and simultaneously generates key aldehyde flavor components. The Maillard reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids further enriches the flavor. Correlation analysis revealed key relationships between raw material properties and final product texture and flavor. The findings offer theoretical and practical guidance for optimizing quality in boiled peanut processing.