The great richness in fibre, which improves the functioning of the digestive system, makes peas welcome on every table, whatever the season. This legume is available fresh and dry, preserved in jars or frozen. If the little green pearls are so popular, what about the pea pods? Are they edible and how do I use them? We did a search for you!
Are pea pods good for health?
Edible podded peas provide instant gratification for your vegetable garden and a list of health benefits. Picked and eaten fresh, they are a good source of vegetable protein. Their support for digestive health and heart health, their protective role against cancer and the management of blood sugar, rank legumes among the mandatory foods for a balanced menu. A green soup with several variations is a quick and easy healthy recipe to prepare.
To enjoy pea pods, you have to distinguish between the two types: the first has round grains whose flesh is a little mealy and has a sweet taste; the second is called “mange-tout” because it is eaten with the very tender pod. Whether you eat it fresh or cooked, the qualities of pea pods are considered to be very nutritious.
Some varieties are stringless, while others develop strings that are either edible or must be removed before cooking or eating. It is possible to anticipate the formation of the strings and to harvest the pods which are still young and crisp. Namely that the flowers and shoots of the plants are also edible.
Is it good to eat pea pods?
The policy of zero waste and saving resources and food advocates avoiding unwanted environmental pollution. In this sense, the pods or peels of vegetables and fruits are integrated into traditional uses such as compost throughout the year or are processed into agro-industrial by-products representing an abundant source of bioactive antioxidants and natural food phenolics. . Some countries like India reject millions of tonnes, while others use them for the production of cellulolytic enzymes, and for animal and ruminant feed.
Aside from dietary fiber and protein, pea pods contain more calcium compared to fava bean pods and okra by-products. Biscuits are produced with 20% of their powder and cakes with 5% of their highly admissible flour to avoid the addition of synthetic coloring.
What to do with the pea pods? : nutritious recipe ideas
Try our first recipe that uses only a handful of basic ingredients and only takes 20 minutes to prepare for 4 servings. It’s a delicious, quick and tasty side dish.
- Take ½ kg of fresh pea pods, without stems and threads.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Heat the oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter has melted, add the pea pods, stirring well. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the pea pods are tender-crisp. Transfer contents to a bowl and season with additional salt and pepper before serving.
Just like the grains inside, pea pods contain pleasant flavors and healthy nutrients. With just a few more steps, you can turn them into a gorgeous green mash to use in sauces and pasta dishes, or even as part of a cocktail! Reduce in a blender with a little bleaching water. Once smooth, pour the puree directly into an ice bath. Cooling the mash immediately preserves the bright green color.
Cooked, snap peas and snow peas are commonly used in stir-fries and for quick vegetable roasts, thanks to their quick cooking times. Shelled green peas are iconic for pea soup, perfect with butter, leeks and mint.
Can pea pods be used in baby food?
Absolutely! Peas have a mild flavor, are safe for allergens, and can be one of the best first food options for babies. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein, which also makes them nutritionally excellent for an infant’s development.
Stimulating digestion and metabolism, peas and their pods are good for constipation.
There is also evidence of improved intestinal transit and contribution to the growth of intestinal bacteria.
