How to Freeze Purple Hull Peas – Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Purple hull peas bring the taste of summer to any meal with their distinctive flavor and rich nutrients. These Southern favorites peak during harvest season but can be enjoyed year-round when properly preserved through freezing.

To freeze purple hull peas, shell and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes then immediately transfer to an ice bath. Once cooled drain thoroughly pack in freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 12 months in the freezer.

Preserving these delectable legumes takes minimal effort yet yields maximum rewards. With the right freezing technique purple hull peas maintain their taste texture and nutritional value allowing gardeners and food enthusiasts to savor this Southern delicacy long after harvest season ends.

“1. Shell and clean the peas

Start with three separate bowls: one for unshelled peas, one for shelled peas and one for empty pods. The organization makes the shelling process more efficient.

Remove each pea from its pod by:

• Pulling off the top stem
• Locating the string running down the pod’s length
• Positioning thumbs at the top and middle
• Pulling apart to split the pod
• Collecting peas with fingers

Place the fresh peas in a colander under cold running water. Run your fingers through them gently to remove any remaining debris or damaged peas. Shake excess water from the colander.

• Shell peas over a clean surface
• Discard any discolored or damaged peas
• Keep a small trash bag nearby for pods
• Work in small batches to maintain freshness
• Process immediately after shelling

With purple hull peas properly shelled and cleaned, they’re ready for the next step in the freezing process.

2. Rinse thoroughly and drain

Place shelled purple hull peas in a large colander under cold running water. Remove any debris, damaged peas or loose pod fragments during this process. Transfer the peas between bowls 2-3 times while rinsing to ensure thorough cleaning.

Fill a large bowl with cold water and add the peas. Swish gently to allow any remaining dirt to settle at the bottom. Skim the clean peas from the top using a slotted spoon. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.

Drain the rinsed peas completely in a colander, giving them a gentle shake to remove excess water. Inspect the peas one final time for:

• Discolored specimens
• Shriveled peas
• Remaining pod pieces
• Floating debris

This thorough cleaning process prepares the purple hull peas for blanching, the next critical step in the freezing process. The cleaned peas maintain their vibrant color while ensuring no unwanted materials make it to the freezer storage stage.

3. Pack into freezer containers or bags

Transfer the cooled peas to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Fill each container or bag 3/4 full, leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top for expansion during freezing. When using freezer bags, press out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Storage tips:

• Use rigid containers with tight-fitting lids
• Label containers with the date packed
• Portion peas into meal-sized amounts (2-3 cups each)
• Double-bag if using freezer bags for extra protection
• Stack containers flat in freezer to maximize space

Pack multiple small portions instead of one large container to thaw only what’s needed for each meal. Press containers gently to compact peas without crushing them. Seal containers immediately after filling to preserve freshness.

4. Remove air and leave ½ inch headspace

Place the cooled peas in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Fill containers only ¾ full to allow space for the peas to expand during freezing. Press out excess air from freezer bags by laying them flat on the counter then gently pushing toward the seal. For rigid containers, tap them gently on the counter to settle the peas into empty spaces.

Add these key steps for optimal storage:

• Leave ½ inch headspace at the top of rigid containers
• Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the peas before sealing
• Close container lids tightly to create an airtight seal
• Label each container with contents date using a permanent marker
• Pack in meal-sized portions for convenient thawing

Storage Container Options:

The removal of air prevents freezer burn while proper headspace allows for food expansion during the freezing process.

5. Label and freeze for up to 8 months”

Transfer the frozen peas from the baking sheet into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label each container with the contents date of freezing. Place the containers in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below for optimal preservation.

Storage Container Options:

• Freezer-safe plastic containers with airtight lids
• Heavy-duty freezer bags (remove excess air)
• Glass containers with secure seals
• Vacuum-sealed bags

Store the containers in the back of the freezer where temperatures remain most consistent. Organize multiple containers in chronological order to use older batches first. Check the containers monthly for signs of freezer burn or damage.