Frozen peas often get overlooked in the kitchen. They seem simple to prepare, but many end up overcooked, dull, and mushy. Why? Because they’re usually thrown straight from the freezer into boiling water, which damages their color, texture, and nutrients.
If you want peas that are vibrant, flavorful, and perfectly tender, here’s the right way to cook them.
✅ How to Cook Frozen Peas Properly
Unlike many frozen veggies, peas need a little extra care to keep their natural sweetness and firm bite. Here’s the step-by-step:
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No Thawing Needed
Frozen peas should go straight from the freezer into the pot — no thawing required. But don’t just dump them into boiling water and forget about them. Instead:
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Bring water to a boil.
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Add a pinch of salt and a small amount of baking soda (this helps keep their bright green color).
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Add the frozen peas directly.
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Boil for 2 to 4 minutes, depending on your preferred tenderness.
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Drain and immediately rinse with cold or ice water to stop cooking and lock in freshness.
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Add Frozen Peas Last in Stir-Fries and One-Pot Meals
Since frozen peas are already partially cooked (blanched), adding them too early in stir-fries, rice, or stews will make them mushy. The trick:
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Toss them in during the last 3 to 5 minutes of cooking.
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This heats them through without sacrificing texture or sweetness.
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Avoid Over-Simmering with the Lid On
Cooking peas with the lid on traps steam, which can make them soggy. Instead, try this:
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Sauté peas uncovered in a little butter or olive oil over medium heat.
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Stir gently until just tender.
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