Freezing Peas From My Garden

As anyone who has read this blog or my gardening blog knows, I garden in raised beds using the square foot garden and companion planting methods. I tend to plant a lot of heritage varieties but also plant some hybrids. Some of what I grow is preserved to be enjoyed during our long winter months. I've been picking and preserving peas for a few days.

Peas & Beans

Beans and peas are grown in bed #3. I am elated at my pea yield this year! This has been the first time I've really had success growing peas. Other years they would grow just enough to tease then given almost nothing. This year I changed a couple of methods and varieties so I'm in the peas! In my opinion they are very nice looking peas, if I don't say so myself. I'm growing a few varieties as explained in my gardening blog, Garden Gnome Wanderings

Little Marvel Peas

Little Marvel Peas are a heritage variety pea. The pods are about 3" long, almost round and tightly packed with 7-8 very tender and very sweet peas. This is a very good freezing variety. The peas are a very nice size too! After the peas have been shelled, I'm getting about a quart a day. So now the next question is how to preserve these lovely little green pearls? Personally I refuse to either can or dry peas! I find I get the best results freezing peas.

Freezing Peas:
Shell the peas and wash. This is the time consuming part but not really difficult. Once the peas are shelled, put a pot of water on to boil. Once the pot is boiling add the peas and blanch 2 minutes. Drain and cool. Pack into container of choice. I prefer zip loc bags so I can use as needed. Label and freeze.