How to Freeze/Store Fresh Green Peas

This year we had really good crop of peas and at one time i was harvesting more peas than i can use .So my mom suggested me that i should try freezing them and told me how to freeze them.My mom freeze peas every year back in India for winter use.

Freezing is also one of the simplest ways to put up a vegetable for the winter and it is also a great way to preserve the taste and texture of any vegetable.Properly frozen peas are nearly as good as the fresh ones straight off the vine.So I have frozen some in bags to enjoy later.



It is best to freeze the peas immediately after harvesting to preserve the fresh taste.Look for pods that are bright green and not yet starting to dry out at the stem end. The shape of the fully formed peas should be easy to feel through the pods. It is not necessary to thaw frozen peas before cooking them.Frozen peas still have to be simmered for 20 minutes before serving, but the flavor is closer to fresh.

There are two ways to store/freeze fresh peas by Blanching & Not Blanching

Blanching is heating vegetables in boiling water or steam for a short period of time.It is said to slow or stop the action of enzymes which causes loss of color, flavor and texture. It also cleans the surface of dirt and organisms and brightens the color.You can read more about blanching here

I personally prefer blanching but its totally up to you that how you choose to store your peas.

How to Freeze/Store Fresh Green Peas

Bring a large pan of water to a rolling boil



Drop in the peas. Don’t cover the pan. Set the timer for 1 1/2 minute



You will notice that after 1 1/2 minutes all the peas start floating .



Remove the peas and drain them, running the cold tap over them to cool them quickly( Or put them directly in the pot full of ice water to stop the cooking immediately)



Let them air dry for sometime before storing/freezing.



Pack into freezer bags– label, and freeze.