If you are wondering how to freeze peas you are in the right place. Freezing peas is incredibly quick and easy and a great way to keep them fresh
The best way to take advantage of peas’ delicious flavor is to buy them when they are at their best and freeze them.
And if you do it the right way, you can use them for months!
About the wonderful peas
There is no clear evidence of where peas come from but what is clear is that peas are some of the oldest crops known.
Of frequent use in Europe, it had likely come from Egypt or eastern parts of the Mediterranean.
This legume has significantly boosted as an alternative protein widely used in vegan and vegetarian diets in recent years.
Peas come from a green legume in a green pod about 8 to 10 cm long, smooth and shiny.
These pods protect the inside seeds, which can be very tender and sweet before maturity.
Fresh peas have great nutritional and energetic value, rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals with low lipid contents and no cholesterol.
Peas are a valuable source of protein and have large percentages of iron and vitamin C; it also has vitamin B, A, and E.
And best of all? This legume only has just 80 to 90 calories per 100gr, and you can add to your dishes in numerous ways.
Can you freeze peas?
Definitely! Peas are one of the easiest vegetables to freeze.
It is also an excellent alternative to take advantage of this legume by freezing it when you buy it fresh.
How to freeze peas (Step by Step)
There are two ways to freeze peas; you can either freeze them fresh or blanched.
Before freezing the peas, whether you are going to freeze them raw or blanched, you must:
Step 1: Remove peas from the pods.
Step 2: Wash thoroughly, remove damaged ones, and set in a colander to remove excess water.
Now you will have them ready to continue with the process you prefer.
To freeze fresh peas:
Step 1: Spread peas on a cookie sheet and freeze for an hour or until they are frozen enough not to stick together.
Step 2: Remove from freezer, bag them and label with contents and date.
Step 3: Place back in the freezer.
To freeze blanched peas:
Step 1: Fill a pot with water and bring to a boil.
Step 2: Add the peas, and cook them for about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Drain the peas and immediately put them in ice-cold water for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Drain excess water and transfer the peas to a cookie sheet.
Step 5: Place peas in the freezer until frozen enough that they will not stick together.
Step 6: Bag peas, label, and date them.
Step 7: Place back into the freezer.
FAQs about freezing peas
How long can peas last in the freezer?
You can use frozen peas within 12 to 18 months.
What are the advantages of freezing peas?
By freezing peas, you not only prevent them from rotting, but you also save cooking time while preserving their texture and sweetness.
How long do peas take to cook when frozen?
Peas will take between 5 to 7 minutes to cook when frozen.
Implements and equipment you will need to freeze peas
You will need:
- Colander.
- Pot for boiling water.
- Bowl for cold water.
- Cookie sheet.
- Plastic bag.
How to thaw peas
You can place the peas in a colander under running water for a few minutes, or you can place them in the microwave for a minute or two.
Peas are so easy to thaw that you can also cook peas directly from the freezer if you want.
What can you make with frozen peas?
You can take advantage of this versatile frozen legume in many ways and add it to various recipes:
- Soups and creams: Prepare a delicious pea cream in a few minutes, and you will have a delicious dish loaded with nutrients and that even toddlers like.
- Side dish: You can accompany many dishes with peas, and you can incorporate other vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans.
- Pasta and peas: Prepare a delicious dinner with this incredible combination!
- Puree: Almost any protein goes perfectly with a delicious pea puree, which also adds a touch of color!
- Salads: Add them to salads.
- Hummus: You can prepare Hummus by mixing the peas with the herbs and spices of your choice!
Want to learn more about freezing your favorites?
- Check this post about how to freeze cauliflower
- Read how to freeze asparagus easily and in no time
- Save this post about how to freeze kale easily and in no time
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