Peas, with their vibrant green hue and delicate sweetness, are a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. In this guide, we’ll explore how to cook fresh and frozen in 5 different ways, whether you use fresh peas straight from the garden or a bag of frozen peas in your freezer
1. How To Cook Peas on Stove
1.1. How To Steam Peas
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh peas or frozen peas
- water
Equipments
- a steamer basket
- a large pot
Instructions
Prepare the peas: Shell fresh peas and rinse them under cold water. For frozen peas, measure out the desired amount.
Set up the steamer: Fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a gentle boil. Place a steamer basket over the pot, making sure it doesn’t touch the water.
Steam the peas: Place the peas in the steamer basket and cover with a lid. Steam for 2-4 minutes for fresh peas, or 1-2 minutes for frozen peas, until they are tender but still have a slight crunch.
Finish with seasoning: Toss the steamed peas with a knob of butter, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of freshly ground black pepper for a simple and delicious side dish.
1.2. How To Boil Peas
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh peas or frozen peas
- water
Equipments
- a large pot
Instructions
Prep the peas: Shell and rinse fresh peas, or measure out the desired amount of frozen peas.
Boil water: Fill a pot with enough water to submerge the peas. Add a pinch of salt for seasoning.
Cook the peas: Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the peas. Cook fresh peas for 2-3 minutes, and frozen peas for 1-2 minutes. Drain them promptly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Season to taste: Add a touch of butter and a sprinkle of salt for an effortless, delightful dish.
1.3. How To Sauté Peas
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh peas or frozen peas
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
Equipments
- a large skillet
Instructions
Prepare the peas: Shell and rinse fresh peas. For frozen peas, thaw them and pat dry with a paper towel.
Heat the pan: Place a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil.
Sauté the peas: Add the peas to the hot pan and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes, or until they develop a golden-brown color.
Season and serve: Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
2. How To Cook Peas in Microwave
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh peas or frozen peas
- 4 tbsp water
Instructions
Place peas in a microwave-safe dish: For fresh peas, use a microwave-safe bowl. For frozen peas, place them in a microwavable bag.
Add a small amount of water: For every cup of peas, add about two tablespoons of water.
Cover and microwave: If using a bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe plate or use the lid. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes for fresh peas, or 1-2 minutes for frozen peas.
Season and serve: Toss with butter, salt, and pepper for a quick side dish.
3. How To Cook Peas in Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh peas or frozen peas
- 1 cup of water
Instructions
Place peas in the Instant Pot: For fresh peas, add them directly. For frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw.
Add water: Pour in 1/2 cup of water for every cup of peas.
Set the Instant Pot: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure. Cook fresh peas for 1-2 minutes, and frozen peas for 0-1 minute. Use the quick release valve to release pressure.
Season and serve: Season with your choice of herbs, butter, salt, and pepper for a delightful side dish.
4. What To Do With Cooked Peas?
Now that you have perfectly cooked peas, there are countless ways to enjoy them. Add them to salads, pasta dishes, soups, or stir-fries. They also make a fantastic addition to risottos or simply enjoy them as a standalone side dish.
Peas are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be easily prepared using a variety of cooking methods. Whether you choose to steam, boil, sauté, microwave, or use an Instant Pot, mastering these techniques will allow you to incorporate peas into your meals.
