Snow Peas(Edible Pea Pods)
Bright, tender snow peas cooked with a savory soy and beef broth glaze, perfect as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals or light vegetarian options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stem and string fresh snow peas, leaving them whole, or thaw frozen peas with hot water.
- Simmer the peas in 1/4 cup water for about 3 minutes.
- Combine cornstarch, water, a pinch of sugar, beef broth powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the mixture into the peas.
- Cover and cook for 3 to 4 minutes longer, or until the peas are tender-crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For fresh snow peas, make sure to remove the strings for a better texture. If you can't find beef broth powder, you can substitute with vegetable broth or a homemade beef stock. Adjust the soy sauce based on your salt preference. If you want a bit more flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the mix, which pairs beautifully with many Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These snow peas make a vibrant side dish that pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken or beef, especially in dishes like Beef Kushisashi. Serve them alongside rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also toss them into stir-fries or salads for an added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so quickly in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the peas too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snow Peas(Edible Pea Pods) contains roughly 117 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned snow peas instead of fresh or frozen?
Canned snow peas are not recommended for this recipe as they are already cooked and can become mushy. Fresh or frozen snow peas will provide the best texture and taste.
What can I substitute for soy sauce to make it gluten-free?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Both options retain a similar flavor profile, allowing you to enjoy this dish without gluten.
How can I enhance the flavor of the snow peas further?
Consider adding sesame oil or a splash of rice vinegar for a more complex flavor profile. Tossing in red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick, enhancing the overall dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).