How do you cook home grown purple hull peas?

Cooking Homegrown Purple Hull Peas: A Delightful Southern Tradition

Purple hull peas, known for their distinctive purple pods and sweet flavor, are a true Southern delicacy. Here's a guide to cooking them to perfection:

1. Preparation:

* Shell the peas: Remove the peas from their pods. You can use your fingers or a pea sheller.

* Wash the peas: Rinse the peas thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

* Discard any damaged peas: Look for shriveled or discolored peas and remove them.

2. Cooking Methods:

* Boiling:

* Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt to taste.

* Add the peas to the boiling water and reduce the heat to a simmer.

* Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the peas are tender but still have a slight bite.

* Drain the peas and serve them hot.

* Pressure Cooking:

* Fill the pressure cooker with water, add salt to taste, and place a steamer basket inside.

* Place the peas in the steamer basket.

* Close the pressure cooker and cook for 5-7 minutes at high pressure.

* Release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes.

* Open the pressure cooker and enjoy the peas.

* Slow Cooker:

* Place the peas in the slow cooker with water and salt.

* Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the peas are tender.

* Microwave:

* Place the peas in a microwave-safe dish with water and salt.

* Microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

* Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

3. Flavor Enhancers:

* Seasoning: Add other seasonings like black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or bay leaf.

* Vinegar: A dash of vinegar can enhance the flavor and brighten the color of the peas.

* Butter or olive oil: A pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil can add richness and creaminess.

4. Serving Suggestions:

* Sides: Serve them as a simple side dish for any meal, especially barbecue, fried chicken, or grilled meats.

* Salads: Use cooked peas in salads for a burst of flavor and texture.

* Soups: Add cooked peas to soups for a hearty and flavorful base.

Tips:

* Don't overcook: Overcooked peas become mushy.

* Use fresh peas: Freshly picked peas have the best flavor.

* Freezing peas: If you have an abundance of peas, you can freeze them for later use. Blanch the peas for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then immediately plunge them into ice water. Drain and freeze in freezer bags.

Enjoy your delicious homegrown purple hull peas!