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I have been spending a lot of time in my garden this week, and it just makes me so happy! It takes a lot of work and effort to get those little seeds to grow; but harvesting brings the greatest reward. I’ve learned if I freeze my garden peas I get this reward year round!
Peas are one of my favorite vegetable to grow. There is just something about shelling peas that warms my heart and brings some old fashioned nostalgia. Plus, you will never taste a pea as delicious as one straight from the garden, promise!
My goal every year is to be able to preserve enough peas to last us throughout the winter. Honestly, I’ve never met that goal, but I keep trying!
My favorite way to preserve my garden peas is by freezing them. It’s quick and easy to do, and keep the sweet garden flavor.
How To Blanche and Freeze Peas
The first step to freezing peas is to blanche them. This word might sound a little scary, but it’s actually so simple! Blanching is the process used to preserve vegetables flavor, color and texture. All it takes is a quick boil and cold water bath to blanche.
1. Wash The Peas
The first thing you need to do with your newly shelled peas is to wash them. Give them a nice cold rinse in the sink. This helps get rid of any lingering dirt or grime.
2. Boil Water
Bring a large pot of water to a roaring boil. (I obviously was impatient when taking the picture, make sure it is actually boiling! 😉 )
3. Boil Peas
Once your water has reached a roaring boil, add the washed peas. Return the water back to a boil. Boil peas for 1.5 minutes. The timing is important. Set a timer to be sure you are exact. Remember, the timer should only begin once the water is back to a hard boil.
4. Prepare Cold Water
While your peas are boiling, prepare your cold water. I like to fill a bowl up with water and ice cubes. It is important that this water be very cold to stop the peas from cooking.
5. Add Peas To Cold Water
After the peas have boiled for 1.5 minutes, drain the hot water and immediately add the peas to the cold water bowl. Allow them to sit in the ice water for 1.5 minutes, or until they are completely cooled down.
6. Divide Into Freezer Bags
Drain your peas once again, and then divide them into freezer bags. I put about 1.5 cups into each bag, because that is how much my family will eat with one meal. This makes it very easy to pull the bags out of the freezer and be ready with the exact proportions.
7. Seal Bags
Lastly, you will need to get all of the air out of the bag. This is important in preventing freezer burn. I like to lay it flat on the counter and use both of my hands to slowly get the air out, and then quickly close the baggie. Once the air is out, write the contents and date on your bag and throw it in the freezer. You are done! Enjoy your fresh and delicious peas year round!
