What Are Dried Peas?
Dried peas (Pisum sativum) are a legume made by allowing fresh peas to mature and then drying them. They come in two main colors, yellow and green, and are sold whole or split.
Compared with fresh peas, they have a more concentrated flavor and a flourier texture. Because they are dried, they are available year-round and can be stored for a long time.
Dried Pea Nutrition Facts
One hundred grams of boiled dried peas contain about 118 kcal, 8.3 g of plant-based protein, and 8.3 g of fiber. They are also a valuable source of iron and B vitamins.
What Are the Benefits of Dried Peas?
With their high fiber and plant-based protein content, dried peas are a filling, economical legume that can be part of a balanced diet. Their slowly digested carbohydrates have traditionally led them to be considered a food that sustains energy for a long time.
This is general information; dried peas are a food and are not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Dried Peas
Quality dried peas should have a bright yellow or green color; dullness and dust buildup are signs of age.
- The peas should be uniform in size; a mix of different sizes can lead to uneven cooking.
- Choose peas with a low proportion of broken pieces.
- The package should be dry and show no signs of moisture.
How to Store Dried Peas
Dried peas can be stored for up to 1 year in a sealed container in a cool, dark cupboard. Cooked peas stay fresh for 3–4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can also be frozen as soup.
How to Use Dried Peas in the Kitchen
Dried peas are most often used in soups and puréed dishes; they can also be cooked whole in meat-based or olive-oil dishes.
How to Make Dried Pea Soup
Simmer soaked peas with onion and carrot in water for 40–50 minutes, until the peas break down; then blend until smooth.
How to Cook Dried Peas
Drain peas soaked overnight and simmer them in plenty of water over low heat for 40–50 minutes, until tender; skim off the foam that forms as they boil.
What Recipes Use Dried Peas?
Dried pea soup, dried pea purée, meat with dried peas, and olive-oil braised peas are among the most common recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between dried and fresh peas?
Fresh peas are harvested before they mature and eaten fresh, while dried peas are fully mature and then dried; they have a more concentrated flavor and a flourier texture.
Can dried peas be cooked without soaking?
Yes, but the cooking time is considerably longer; soaking shortens the cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
What are dried peas good for?
They are rich in fiber and plant-based protein and are a filling food that can be part of a balanced diet. They are a food and are not claimed to cure any disease.
How long do dried peas take to cook?
After soaking, they become fully tender in about 40–50 minutes; in a pressure cooker, this takes 20 minutes.
Is there a difference between yellow and green dried peas?
Their nutritional values are very similar; the main differences are color and subtle nuances in flavor. Both cook the same way.