Peas

Guide Note

Peas are a vegetable that consists of the seeds, and sometimes also the seedpods, of the plant Pisum sativum, in the legume family. Numerous varieties have been developed over the centuries, with many colors and characteristics. Three major kinds are widely available in the U.S., with the perishable sweet green pea usually sold frozen and edible-pod varieties (such as the snow pea) often sold fresh, while the less cosmetically refined yellow or gray-green pea is dried and later reconstituted, or used as a protein-enhancing 'stealth' ingredient in commercial foods.

Fast Facts

1. Cool season vegetable crop
2. Rich in Vitamin C and protein
3. Origin: Southwest Asia
4. Some varieties have edible pods
5. Some varieties also have edible leaves and stalks

Fresh green peas are often served alone with minimal seasoning, with carrots, or with carrots, corn, and lima beans in succotash. Edible-pod varieties are popular in Asian cuisines and in their Americanized versions, particularly as an ingredient in stir fry. Dried peas were formerly a staple in America, but are now mostly relegated to traditional dishes such as pea soup.