The Difference Between Garden Peas, Snow Peas, and Sugar Snap Peas
Ever wonder what the differences are between garden peas, snow peas, and sugar snap peas? You’re not the only one!
Garden Peas:
These are peas you typically see canned or in the frozen section. They are also more commonly found in farmers markets. Garden peas are typically 3-4 inches long and have tough pods that aren’t recommended for eating. However, these pods contain sweet, tender peas, which are perfect for adding to stir fries and soups, cooked on their own as a simple side dish or even eaten raw in a salad. Smaller, even more tender garden peas are often known as petite pois.
Snow Peas:
Snow peas are flat with small peas inside. They are tender and unlike the garden pea, the entire vegetable is enjoyable to eat. Two to three inches in length, they’re ends are commonly trimmed and then they are used whole in stir-fries or blanched with some butter. They are also delicious eaten raw as a snack or added to a salad or vegetable tray.
Sugar Snap Peas:
Snap peas are a cross between garden peas and snow peas! That’s how they get their tender crisp outer pods, and sweet inner peas. Some snap pea varieties are stringless like snow peas, while others may need some trimming before they are ready to eat. Like snow peas, they are enjoyed raw or lightly cooked in a variety of dishes.
