Keep your peas fresh and sweeter for longer with this expert-approved hack

Peas are a delightful addition to any meal, offering sweetness, freshness, and a burst of vibrant green colour.

However, keeping peas fresh for an extended period can be a challenge, especially if you want to preserve their natural sweetness. Luckily, there are several simple yet effective methods to ensure your peas stay crisp, sweet, and delicious for longer. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan shared one such method on her Instagram, stating, “Preserve green peas for up to 1 year by freezing it correctly.”

Demonstrating the process, Mahajan explained that first, one needs to boil water in a saucepan. Once the water is bubbling hot, add salt and sugar to it. After this, she advises adding the green peas into the mixture and cooking them for only 2 minutes.

Once this is done, transfer the peas into ice-cold water. “We don’t want to cook the green peas,” she said, adding that this will prevent any wrinkles on top of the skin, which doesn’t look nice. Now that the peas are cooled down, transfer them into an airtight container and freeze them, Mahajan said.

However, this is not the only way to keep your peas fresh for longer. Here are some other methods:
*Choose fresh peas: The first step in maintaining the freshness and sweetness of peas is selecting the best quality produce. Look for peas that are firm, plump, and vibrant green in colour. Avoid peas with signs of wilting, discolouration, or wrinkled pods, as these are indications of age and deterioration.

*Store properly: Proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness of peas. After purchasing or harvesting fresh peas, promptly refrigerate them to slow down the process of decay. Place the peas in a perforated plastic bag or a container with ventilation to maintain airflow while preventing excess moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage.

*Keep them dry: Moisture is the enemy when it comes to preserving peas. Excess moisture can cause peas to become mushy and lose their sweetness quickly. To keep peas dry, avoid washing them until you’re ready to use them. If your peas are damp or wet, gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel before storing them in the refrigerator.

*Avoid overcooking: Whether you’re steaming, boiling, or sautéing peas, it’s essential to avoid overcooking them to maintain their natural sweetness and crisp texture. Cook peas only until they are tender yet still retain a slight crunch. Overcooked peas can become mushy and lose their flavour, so keep a close eye on them while cooking and test for doneness frequently.

*Store pods separately: If you’re harvesting peas from your garden or purchasing them with the pods intact, consider storing the pods separately from the peas. Pea pods release moisture as they age, which can accelerate the deterioration of the peas inside. Remove the peas from the pods, store them in a breathable container in the refrigerator, and use the pods promptly for the best results.