canned peas

Pea canning: the taste of summer all year round

Who doesn't love the fresh taste of peas, especially when it comes to enjoying them in the middle of winter? Canning is an ancient tradition that allows us to savor seasonal flavors even when the weather isn't favorable. This pea canning recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to preserve the nutrients and delicious taste of fresh vegetables. Let's embark on this step-by-step process!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 1 jar of 800 ml

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh peas
- 1 tablespoon salt (preferably non-iodized salt)
- 1 aspirin tablet or 1 teaspoon of preservative
- Water (enough to fill the jar)

Preparing the peas:
1. Selecting the peas: Choose fresh pea pods, preferably from the recent harvest. The color should be vibrant, and the peas should be firm. Avoid peas with spots or soft ones to achieve a high-quality canning.

2. Cleaning and washing: Shell the peas, removing the pods. Place the peas in a large bowl of cold water and wash them well, changing the water several times. This step is essential for removing impurities.

3. Preparing the jar: Ensure that the 800 ml jar is clean and sterilized. You can do this by boiling it in water or using a high-temperature dishwasher.

Filling the jar:
4. Filling the jar: Add the cleaned peas to the jar, leaving a small space at the top (about 2-3 cm). This is important for the liquid expansion during the canning process.

5. Adding the ingredients: Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt over the peas and add the aspirin tablet or preservative. These ingredients help maintain the vibrant color and prevent bacterial growth.

6. Filling with water: Pour water into the jar, filling it to the top edge. Ensure that the peas are completely covered to prevent oxidation.

Cooking the cans:
7. Preparing for boiling: Place a towel at the bottom of a large pot. This will protect the jar from direct heat. Place the jar on the towel and cover it with another towel to reduce the risk of breaking.

8. Boiling: Fill the pot with water so that it exceeds half the height of the jar. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, time for 30 minutes of constant boiling. This is when the peas will retain their flavor and nutrients.

9. Cooling: After the cooking time has elapsed, carefully remove the jar from the water (using protective gloves) and let it cool on a wooden rack or an insulated surface. This step is essential to prevent the jar from breaking due to a sudden temperature change.

10. Storing: Once completely cooled, check the jar lid. It should be well sealed. If the lid is not airtight, it is important not to consume the contents. Jars can be stored in a cool, dark place, where they can be used throughout the winter.

Serving suggestions:
Canned peas can be used in various dishes. You can add them to soups, stews, or salads. They can also be an excellent accompaniment to meat or fish. A wonderful idea would be to prepare a pea salad with carrots and mayonnaise, a classic dish that will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Variations:
- Peas with carrots: Add some finely chopped carrots to the jar for extra flavor and vibrant color.
- Spices: Experiment with adding spices like dill or bay leaves to provide a more complex taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peas?: Yes, frozen peas can be used, but it is recommended to thaw them before canning.
2. Why is aspirin or preservative important?: These help maintain the color and texture of the peas while preventing bacterial growth.
3. What are the benefits of peas?: Peas are rich in protein, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of canned peas (approximately 100 g) contains about 70 calories, being an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. Consuming peas can help improve digestion and maintain heart health.

So now that you have gone through these steps, you are ready to enjoy a serving of canned peas! Try this simple recipe and bring a bit of summer to every meal during winter. Cooking is an art, and canning is an excellent way to preserve the taste and joy of fresh food all year round. Bon appétit!