Steaming Frozen Peas: Quick, Easy, And Nutritious

Frozen peas are a convenient, affordable, and nutritious option, but how do you cook them? Boiling is a common method, but it can lead to nutrient loss and overcooking. Steaming is a better option, as it helps retain the nutritional value and flavour of the peas. To steam frozen peas, add 5-8cm of water to a pan and bring it to a boil. Place a steaming basket over the water, ensuring it isn't touching the water. Secure the basket, add the frozen peas, cover the pan, and steam for 2-3 minutes. Serve the peas immediately for the freshest taste, or store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

How to steam frozen peas

Steaming frozen peas is a great way to retain their nutritional value and maximise their taste and flavour. Here is how to do it in four simple steps:

• Add 5-8cm of water to a pan and bring it to a boil.
• Once the water is boiling, place a steaming basket over it, ensuring that the basket is not touching the water.
• Securely place the frozen peas in the basket, cover the pan with a lid, and begin steaming.
• After 2-3 minutes, your peas will be cooked and ready to serve.

You can also add a tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper to taste after draining the peas.

How long to steam frozen peas for

Steaming is one of the most popular ways to cook frozen peas, as it helps to retain their nutritional value. It is also a quick and easy way to cook them. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam frozen peas:

Step 1: Prepare the water and steaming basket

Add 5-8cm of water to a pan and place it on the stove. Put a steaming basket over the pan, ensuring that the basket is not touching the water.

Step 2: Add the frozen peas

Once the water comes to a boil, it is time to add the frozen peas. Place them in the steaming basket, cover the pan with a lid, and proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Steam the peas

Steam the peas for 2-3 minutes. This is the crucial step that ensures your peas are cooked perfectly. Overcooking them will result in mushy peas, so keep a close eye on the time.

Step 4: Serve the peas

After 2-3 minutes, your peas should be bright green, crisp, and tender. Remove the steaming basket from the pan and transfer the peas to a serving dish. Enjoy them as a nutritious and tasty side dish!

Tips for steaming frozen peas:

• It is essential to use a steaming basket that fits properly into your pan to ensure even cooking.
• Avoid overfilling the steaming basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
• Always use a lid when steaming to trap the steam and ensure even cooking.
• For extra flavour, you can season the peas with a little salt, pepper, and butter after steaming.

What to season steamed frozen peas with

There are many ways to season steamed frozen peas. Here are some ideas:

Salt and Pepper

A little salt and pepper can go a long way in bringing out the flavour of steamed frozen peas. Don't be shy with these simple seasonings!

Garlic

Fresh garlic or garlic powder can add a punch of flavour to your peas. If using fresh garlic, sauté it lightly before adding the peas to your pan.

Sugar

Adding a small pinch of sugar can enhance the natural sweetness of the peas.

Lemon

Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a tangy, bright flavour to your peas.

Cheese

Try sprinkling on some parmesan, feta, or Cotija cheese for a salty, savoury touch.

Mint

Mint is a classic herb to pair with peas. Add some fresh mint leaves to your peas at the end of cooking, or stir through finely chopped mint.

Other Fresh Herbs

Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs such as dill, chives, or thyme.

Spices

Try adding some spice to your peas, such as curry powder, cumin, or coriander.

Onion

Sauté some chopped onion before adding your peas to the pan for extra flavour.

Butter

Using butter instead of olive oil when cooking your peas can add a rich, buttery flavour.

What not to do when steaming frozen peas

Steaming is one of the best ways to cook frozen peas, but there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Here are some tips on what not to do when steaming frozen peas:

• Do not overcook the peas. This is probably the most important thing to remember when steaming peas. Overcooking will result in mushy, unappetizing peas. Depending on the cooking method, steamed peas should only take 2-8 minutes to cook.
• Do not add salt to the peas until they are ready to serve. Salting too early can dehydrate the peas, making them less sweet and altering their taste.
• Do not boil the peas. Boiling can lead to nutrient loss and can also affect the colour and texture of the peas.
• Do not be tempted to add salt until you are ready to serve. Salt can draw out water from the peas, changing their taste and texture.
• Do not forget to cover the pan when steaming. This helps to trap the steam and ensure even cooking.
• Do not forget to use a steaming basket. The basket should not touch the water and will help to ensure the peas are cooked evenly.
• Do not forget to add a little butter or oil. This will improve the texture and flavour of the peas and help any seasonings stick.

What to cook with frozen peas

Frozen peas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what to cook with frozen peas:

Soups

A classic way to use frozen peas is in a soup. You can make a simple pea soup by blending cooked peas with stock and seasonings. For a more substantial soup, you can add other vegetables, such as asparagus and zucchini, or meat, such as ham.

Salads

Frozen peas can also be used in salads. They can be added directly to a salad for a crunchy texture or blended into a pesto to be used as a dressing.

Pasta and Noodles

Pasta and noodles are also great options for using frozen peas. You can make a simple dish of orecchiette with walnut and pea pesto or try something more indulgent like buckwheat and ricotta gnocchi with cream, peas, and spinach.

Stir-Fries

Stir-fries are another excellent way to incorporate frozen peas into your meals. You can add them to a stir-fry with other vegetables, meat, or seafood.

Rice Bowls

Rice bowls, such as bacon and shrimp fried rice, are also a great option for using frozen peas. You can also make a simple rice bowl with cooked rice, peas, and your choice of protein.

Snacks and Appetizers

Frozen peas can be used to make a variety of snacks and appetizers, such as vegetarian samosas with potatoes and peas or a dip or spread made from blended peas and other simple flavorings like garlic, herbs, and olive oil.

Sides

Finally, frozen peas can be a great side dish on their own. You can sauté them with butter, garlic, and a little sugar for a quick and easy side or steam them to retain their nutritional value.

Frequently asked questions