Peanuts enjoy widespread popularity in the Philippines; however, there has been limited focus on research and development in this agricultural sector. It wasn’t until the 1980s that USAID, in collaboration with P-CRSP at the University of Georgia, initiated a comprehensive approach to studying peanuts, with PCARRD serving as the coordinating unit.
Peanuts in Philippine Culture: Unveiling Their Significance and Influence The Influence of Peanuts on Philippine Culture: A Deep Dive into Agriculture, Cuisine, and Economy The Philippines, known for its vibrant cuisine and rich cultural heritage, thrives in peanut farming, boasting delicious locally grown peanuts that have become an integral part of the nation’s culture. Peanuts significantly impact the Philippine economy, contributing substantially to exports and displaying versatile uses that drive demand. This resilient legume, cultivated by local farmers, proves profitable in diverse climatic conditions. In 2022, peanut production reached 31.52 thousand metric tons, showcasing substantial growth and leading to an increase in peanut suppliers. Within the realm of Philippine culture, peanuts, locally known as ‘Mani,’ play a central role in various culinary delights. From the iconic Kare-Kare, a delectable mix of meat and peanut butter, to the popular street food Adobong Mani and Pancit, peanuts are a staple ingredient in Filipino gastronomy. The Philippines showcases an array of peanut varieties, including Indian Peanuts with diverse types like red Natal, Bold, and Java, offering versatility in culinary applications. China Peanuts, renowned for their high-quality oil, find their place in stews and soups, satisfying both locals and tourists. Valencia peanuts, with their bright red skin and multiple kernels, are commonly enjoyed boiled or roasted, predominantly produced in West Texas and New Mexico. In addition to its culinary significance, peanuts contribute to the country’s economic growth, food security, and income augmentation. The Philippines boasts top-quality peanuts, with a growing number of suppliers meeting the rising demand. Agrocrops stands out as one of the country’s leading peanut suppliers, specializing in the export, shipment, and processing of homegrown peanuts. With a commitment to world-class quality and unmatched service, Agrocrops ensures the satisfaction of millions worldwide. Rely on Agrocrops for peanuts that bring joy and embody excellence in quality, technique, and technology.
On Colon Street in the city of Dumaguete, starting at the Campanario de Dumaguete, the old watchtower next to the cathedral in the direction of the market, there are some old market buildings. This is where I found the nut vendors. The nuts are the small peanuts and the large coconuts. There is also a woman there who grinds the peanuts into peanut butter with the addition of brown sugar and butter. The coconut traders offer the old, fully ripe, brown coconuts. The hard flesh is grated out of these nuts and the coconut milk is squeezed out. This coconut milk is used in many Filipino dishes. The young coconuts are opened and the water, together with the young, still soft flesh, can be drunk and eaten as a refreshment. Try it yourself the next time you visit the market. [siteorigin_widget class=”WP_Widget_Media_Gallery”][/siteorigin_widget] All to see in this video: Old Market Building on Colon Street | DUMAGUETE
Peanut cultivation plays a vital role in ensuring food security. In the Philippines, peanuts serve as an alternative crop, contributing to both income generation and household consumption. Peanuts are rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, making them valuable for the body. Cultivating peanuts not only provides additional income for farmers but also enables them to purchase other food items and fulfill various family needs. The division of labor between men and women in groundnut cultivation is distinct. Men primarily handle tasks related to soil preparation, fertilization, and the application of insecticides and pesticides. Planting and harvesting duties are shared between men and women, while women focus on weeding. In the post-harvest phase, both men and women participate in drying and manual shelling. However, men are responsible for handling and mechanical shelling processes. In the realm of groundnut processing, women engage in small-scale processing to generate modest income. In larger processing plants, male production managers are employed, although the majority of the processing workforce consists of women. Men typically operate heavy processing machinery, while women oversee quality control and packaging processes. The provided images are sourced from the market in Dumaguete. [siteorigin_widget class=”WP_Widget_Media_Gallery”][/siteorigin_widget] At the market in the city of Dumaguete, I found a few stalls that specialize in peanuts. Peanuts can be bought there in the most diverse varieties. They are weighed and packed by hand. In one of the stores the owner fell asleep between her peanuts during the hot lunch time. Right next door, peanuts are ground into peanut butter. THE VIDEO Old Market Building on Colon Street | DUMAGUETE