Peas: More Than Just a Side Dish – 25 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know
Peas are one of the most popular vegetables grown around the world. Their sweet flavor and versatility make them a staple ingredient in many cuisines. Though peas may seem simple, they actually have a fascinating history and nutrition profile.
Here are 25 interesting facts about peas, everyone’s favorite green spheres:
1. Peas are ancient
Evidence shows peas were cultivated in the Mediterranean and Middle East over 10,000 years ago. Ancient Greeks and Romans enjoyed eating peas fresh and dried.
2. Peas are nutritious
One cup of peas contains 7 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein. They are also high in vitamins A, C, and K as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and manganese.
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (DV) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 134 | |
| Fat | 0.35 g | |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g | |
| Fiber | 8.8 g | |
| Protein | 8.58 g | |
| Iron | 2.46 mg | 14% |
| Magnesium | 62.4 mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 434 mg | 9% |
3. There are several varieties
The main types are garden peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and split peas. Garden peas need to be removed from the pod before eating. Snow peas and sugar snap peas have edible pods. Split peas are dried mature peas.
4. Pea shoots are a delicacy
The shoots and tendrils of pea plants are valued for their flavor. They can be eaten raw in salads or lightly cooked.
5. Peas need support to grow
Pea plants have tendrils that allow them to climb vertically. Gardeners often provide supports like trellises and poles for the vines to wrap around.
6. The pea flower is edible
Pea blossoms can be added to salads or used as a garnish. They have a mild, sweet pea flavor.
7. Peas were vital for early genetics research
In the 19th century, Gregor Mendel’s experiments with pea plants led him to discover the fundamental laws of inheritance and lay the foundation of modern genetics.
8. Frozen peas are flash frozen
To preserve texture and flavor, peas destined for freezing are quickly blanched then frozen within minutes of being picked.
9. Pea soup has long been a favorite
Dating back to ancient times, simple pea soups made from dried peas were an economical and nourishing meal.
10. Peas have many names
Garden peas are also called English peas or green peas. Snow peas go by sugar peas, Chinese pea pods, or mange-tout.
11. Peas spread along trade routes
As early trade developed, peas traveled from the Middle East to Europe and Asia. This allowed different cultures to enjoy peas in their cuisine.
12. Field peas are grown for drying
Unlike garden and sugar snap peas, field peas like black-eyed peas and split peas are left on the vine to fully mature and dry.
13. Peas can be used to make bioplastics
The starch in peas provides a plant-based and renewable way to produce plastics that biodegrade naturally.
14. Pea shoots add texture
Adding fresh pea shoots to dishes like risotto and pasta provides color and crunch. They pair well with creamy ingredients.
15. The pea flower attracts pollinators
Pea blossoms not only look beautiful but provide nectar for visiting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
16. Peas thrive in cool weather
Unlike heat-loving plants, peas grow best in cooler temperatures. Plant them in early spring or fall for a good harvest.
17. Peas are good companion plants
When planted near other crops like corn, celery, cucumbers, and carrots, peas can help increase their yield.
18. Peas can be sprouted
Soaking dry peas allows them to germinate and produce edible sprouts full of nutrients. Pea sprouts have an earthy flavor.
19. Split peas are used in many dishes
Cultures around the world use split peas to make soups, stews, curries, puddings, and fritters. They have a hearty, creamy texture.
20. The pea flower only blooms briefly
A pea plant will have several flowers, but each one only remains open for a day before wilting. Then the flower is pollinated and a pea pod develops.
21. Peas need proper spacing
When planting peas, allow 8-12 inches between plants and arrange rows 2-3 feet apart so they have room to grow.
22. Peas were prized by royalty
In the 17th and 18th centuries, European aristocrats considered fresh green peas a luxury reserved for the upper class until large-scale production made them more available.
23. Peas have edible pods when young
Snow peas and sugar snap peas are picked when the pods are still flat and tender enough to eat. Waiting too long makes them stringy.
24. Peas are good for the soil
Like other legumes, peas form a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria that allows them to absorb nitrogen from the air and enrich the soil.
25. Peas signal the start of spring
After a long winter, the first fresh peas arriving in markets are a sure sign warmer weather is coming and gardens will soon be growing.
So whether you prefer frozen, fresh, dried, or canned peas, they are a tasty and versatile vegetable with a long history. Their nutrition and ease of growing make peas a staple crop around the world.
Conclusion
Peas may seem unassuming, but they have quite an impressive resume! From their extensive history dating back millennia to their starring role in genetics research, peas have had a greater impact on our diets and science than their small size suggests.
Beyond their fascinating background, peas remain a dietary staple thanks to their stellar nutritional profile. Packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, peas provide ample benefits for our health. Their diversity of forms – fresh, frozen, dried – allows us to enjoy their sweet flavor and pop of green color year-round.
Yet peas offer more than just good eating. As an easy-to-grow cool weather crop, peas are a gardener’s dream. They also naturally enrich the soil and attract beneficial pollinators. From the garden and the dinner table to the laboratory, peas have earned their place as one of the most beloved and influential vegetables.
