Boiling frozen peas might be the go-to method for many, but culinary expert has explained how this approach leaves them “mushy” and “bland”. When you boil peas, you’re essentially washing away their flavour as the sugars escape into the water, according to Erica Walker, co-founder of Favorite Family Recipes.
Instead, she advocates for sautéing the veg to bring out their natural sweetness, resulting in a more flavourful and appealing side dish. She said: “There’s actually a correct way to cook frozen peas, and it isn’t boiling! You can have sweet, crisp, vibrant green peas in less than 10 minutes.”
This not only saps the taste from your frozen peas but also strips away valuable nutrients like vitamins C and B, which are lost in the boiling process.
By sautéing your peas with just a touch of butter, you’ll not only enhance their flavour but also achieve a superior texture, avoiding the dreaded mushiness of overcooked peas.
Moreover, sautéing frozen peas is not only tastier but also faster, as there’s no need to wait for a pot of water to come to the boil.
How to make frozen peas taste better
Instructions
Toss peas, butter, sugar, and garlic into a large frying pan. Adding sugar might seem unusual, but it accentuates the natural taste of the peas and counteracts any bitterness.
Erica advised: “Add a little sugar to the peas. Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the peas. It’s ok, it won’t taste weird and it will bring out the natural sweetness.”
There is an optimal time to season your peas, she added.
“Don’t add salt until ready to serve. Salting them too early can dehydrate them and they (obviously) won’t be as sweet. Salt them after they have cooked and you can salt to taste.”
Serve up these peas and expect a side dish that’s rich in flavour, a far cry from the typical bitter, overcooked greens that often feel like a chore to eat.