How to Store Snow Pea Pods

Ripe snow peas are firm and crisp.

Snow peas are a variety of edible pod peas. These peas are not grown for their seeds like other pea varieties--instead they are grown for their crisp pods. Often used in salads or Asian dishes, snow peas provide a satisfying crunch and a fresh flavor. Stored snow peas lose some of their crispness but are still suitable for use in cooked and steamed dishes. Freezing is the preferred storage method, advises Oregon State University Extension. The pods must be properly prepared beforehand; otherwise the pods become limp and soggy.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Pot
• Bowl
• Colander
• Paper towels
• Freezer bags

Instructions

1. Cut off the hard end on each pod with a sharp knife or pair of kitchen scissors. Pull off the fibrous string along the seam of each pod.

2. Fill a pot with water. Bring the water to a full, roiling boil. Place a large bowl filled with ice-cold water next to the stove.

3. Pour the prepared snow peas into the boiling water. Bring the water back to a boil. Boil the snow peas for one minute.

4. Remove the peas from the water with a slotted spoon and immediately plunge them into the ice water. Pour the peas into a colander to drain the water once they are completely cooled.

5. Pat the peas dry with a paper towel, removing as much surface moisture as possible. Place the snow peas in a sealed bag or freezer container and store them in the freezer until ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• Store the frozen snow peas for up to six months.

References

• Oregon State Extension: Edible Pod Peas
• Farmer's Almanac: Freezing Snow Peas and Sugar Snap Peas