what are peanuts classified as

Peanuts are classified as legumes. They are edible seeds that grow in pods, just like soybeans, lentils, and other legumes. Although they are commonly referred to as nuts, they are not true nuts. True nuts are dry fruits that consist of a hard shell covering a single seed, such as acorns, chestnuts, and hazelnuts. Peanuts are members of the pea family and grow underground, unlike walnuts and almonds, which grow on trees. Nutritionally speaking, peanuts and tree nuts are fairly similar, as they are all rich in healthy unsaturated fats and fiber, as well as several vitamins and minerals.