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Peas
By Jennifer A. Wickes
Copyright 2004

History / Geography
This vegetable has been cultivated since ancient times, probably from southwest Asia.

Science
Pisum sativum

Varieties
There are numerous varieties, all apart of the legume family. The English Pea is eaten fresh, whereas the Field Pea is grown to be used in a dried form. Then, there are Pod Peas which are peas that are eaten whilst still in the pods. Snow Peas and Sugar Snap Peas are examples of pod peas.

Season
Spring

How to Select
Make sure the pods are smooth and green. The peas should be tender, but not floury.

Buy poster at Art.com. Storage
Peas taste best eaten immediately after picking. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 - 3 days.

Nutritional Qualities
Fiber and zinc.

Trivia
In ancient times, peas symbolized money and love!

Wine Pairings
Grenache Rose, Zinfandel, Pinot Grigio, Chenin Blanc

Spices
Allspice, basil, cardamom, chervil, coriander (ground), dill, fennel, marjoram, mint, parsley, rosemary, savory, tarragon

Equivalencies
1 lb. fresh, in pods = 1 cup shelled
10 oz. frozen = 2 cups
15 oz. can = 2 cups

Additional Information (Web Sites)
USA Dried Pea & Lentil Council

Recipes

Ensalada Rusa
Recipe By: Jennifer A. Wickes

6 red potatoes -- cut 1" thick
6 eggs, hard-boiled -- chopped
3/4 cup rice vinegar
1 cup corn -- roasted
1 cup peas
1 cup carrots -- chopped
1 red bell pepper -- chopped
1/2 cup capers
1/2 cup black olives -- sliced
1/2 cup chives -- chopped
salt and pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons brown mustard
1 cup mayonnaise -- approximately

Dress an ear of corn with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. Turn to make all sides a golden color.

Cube the potatoes, leaving the skin on. Put the potatoes in a pot with salt and water. Bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until a knife can be inserted into the potato, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Do not overcook the potatoes, as they will get mushy.

When cooked, drain thoroughly. Dress the potatoes with rice vinegar. Add the chopped eggs and toss. Allow the mixture to cool. When cool, discard any excess vinegar.

Slicing the carrots, steam the carrots until a little tender, but leaving some crisp to it.

Peas
     

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The copyright of the article Peas in Cooking for the Season is owned by Jennifer A. Wickes. Permission to republish Peas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: View all related messages

2.   Jun 1, 2004 4:56 PM
In response to message posted by jerrib:

Thanks, Jerri! ...

-- posted by CulinaryJen


1.   Jun 1, 2004 3:25 PM
Your recipes sound enticing, especially the pear/pea one.

-- posted by jerrib





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