Green peas are a member of the legume family, similar to pinto beans and lentils. Though peas provide a healthy dose of protein, like their legume cousins, they differ in that they take only a few minutes to cook. Peas are extremely versatile and can be used alone as a side dish or combined with other foods in soups, salads, stir-fries and casseroles. Whether you buy fresh or frozen, peas are a snap to cook.
Fresh
Step 1
Wash the outside shell of the peas.
Step 2
Remove the peas from the shell by tearing or pinching the end of the shell off the pod. Pull the string, which will emerge when the end is taken off, down the length of the pea shell. Open the shell and remove the peas.
Step 3
Place the peas in a strainer and rinse them under cool running water.
Step 4
Fill a small to medium-size pot halfway with water. Bring the water to a boil. Do not add salt to the water or it can toughen up the texture of the peas.
Step 5
Place the peas in the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 6
Remove the peas from heat when they are tender. Drain the peas using a strainer. Serve immediately.
Frozen
Step 1
Bring a small to medium-size pot of water to a boil. Use only enough water so that the peas are just covered. Do not add salt to the water or it can toughen up the texture of the peas.
Step 2
Place the peas in the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Frozen peas take a similar amount of time to cook as fresh peas, since frozen peas are usually partially cooked before freezing.
Step 3
Remove the peas from heat when they are tender. Drain the peas using a strainer. Serve immediately.
Tips and Warnings
- Add a pinch of sugar to the boiling water to bring out the sweetness in the peas.
Things You'll Need
- Strainer
- Pot
- Water
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