Black Diamond peanuts are a black-skinned peanut variety unique to Yuanchang Township in Yunlin County, prized for their anthocyanin-rich kernels and soft, crumbly texture. Yuanchang has the largest peanut growing area in Taiwan, accounting for roughly 40% of national production, thanks to the well-drained, sun-drenched sandy loam left by the Zhuoshui River's alluvial deposits, with harvest running from about September to November.
According to agricultural reports including Shennong Girl (神農少女) and the Yuanchang Farmers' Association, Yuanchang Township's Black Diamond peanut growing area exceeds 1,000 hectares — the largest in Taiwan — accounting for roughly 40% of national peanut production, while Yunlin County as a whole accounts for over 70%, making it Taiwan's primary peanut-growing region.
What are Yuanchang Black Diamond Peanuts
Black Diamond is a Taiwan-bred domestic variety whose kernel membrane is deep black-purple — named for its anthocyanin content. Compared to standard peanuts, Black Diamond has a slightly lower fat content and a softer, more crumbly texture; once roasted or boiled, the aroma is rich and full. Common preparations include boiled peanuts (preserving the natural sweetness), fried peanuts (crispy and good with drinks), peanut candy, and peanut butter. The Yuanchang Farmers' Association also runs a certified direct-sales operation to prevent peanuts from other regions being passed off as Yuanchang's.
Yuanchang Township is in the southern part of Yunlin County, bordering Chiayi. The terrain is uniformly flat; the Zhuoshui River's long-term deposition has formed loose, sandy loam soil that is well-aerated and resistant to waterlogging, allowing peanut roots to extend freely. The Ministry of Agriculture's food education platform confirms Yuanchang Township as Taiwan's primary peanut-producing area. Local farming families have grown peanuts for generations, treating peanut farming as their traditional livelihood; rows of peanuts drying along the farm roads are a common sight during harvest season.
How to eat them the authentic way
Local knowledge
Objective endorsements
- The Ministry of Agriculture's food education platform confirms Yuanchang Township has the largest peanut growing area in Taiwan, accounting for approximately 40% of national production.
- The Yuanchang Farmers' Association runs certified direct sales for Black Diamond peanuts with traceable provenance, preventing other varieties from being substituted.
- The Black Diamond variety's anthocyanin content is several times higher than regular peanuts — supported by Ministry of Agriculture variety registration records.
Visitor tips
- The Yuanchang Farmers' Association direct sales center may close early on non-holiday afternoons; visiting in the morning and calling ahead to confirm is recommended.
- Standard peanuts dyed to resemble Black Diamond are sold in the market; look for the farmers' association certification mark or buy directly from a farm.
- Fresh boiled peanuts are a fresh produce item and don't keep well at room temperature; refrigerate after purchase and consume as soon as possible.
Sources: Ministry of Agriculture Food Education Platform, Yuanchang Farmers' Association. Photos pending Dio's on-site shoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the name "Black Diamond" come from?
It comes from the deep black-purple membrane covering the kernel, which is rich in anthocyanins.
How does Yuanchang rank in peanut cultivation area in Taiwan?
Yuanchang has the largest peanut growing area in Taiwan, accounting for roughly 40% of national production.
When is the Black Diamond peanut harvest season?
The harvest season runs from about September to November.
Sources
- 黑金剛花生是什麼？3分鐘了解花生由來、產地 — 元長黑金剛花生產地與產量說明