Love eating those fresh summer peas and beans and wondering how to keep them on your dinner plate year round? Blanching and freezing is the answer! Why blanch you may ask? Blanching stops the enzyme actions which would cause the loss of flavor, texture, and color. Keep reading or watch the video for a quick guide on how to blanch your favorite peas or beans.
1. Wash shelled peas in a big container of cold water.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Make sure the pot is large enough that the peas have room to wiggle about.
3. Add peas to the pot. Boil the peas for approximately 1.5 minutes.
4. Once boiling (1.5 minutes) is complete, immediately place the peas in an ice water bath.
5.Once the peas have cooled, use a colander to drain the water.
2 ways to freeze:
1. Individually: Place peas on tray and freeze for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer to freezer bag.
2. Together: Put peas directly into freezer bag.
That’s it! You’ll be able to have delicious peas with your meals throughout the year!
*Use caution when around boiling water as it will be very hot!