English

English peas, generally known as shell peas or garden peas enjoy a short lived season. It is a round seed of the legume family that grows in a vine. Unlike snow peas, the fibrous pods of English peas cannot be brought into daily use.

History

Peas were known to have been around from as early as stone age. But insight into its genetics and cultivation on a large basis only began in the early 19th century with more and more people becoming interested in this delicious and flavourful vegetable. The garden pea was developed in England and thus came the name ‘English pea.’ It is believed to be the aftermath of the deliberate crosses between different varieties, initiated by the scientist Gregor Mendel, and then forth research started in this filed in both Europe and the United States.

Purpose/Use

Now, peas are a very popular crop among gardeners. One of the reasons behind this is the fact that they have low maintenance and grow in more or less any soil condition. Another factor is that they have the innate ability to produce enough nitrogen in the soil, which in turn helps the growth of other plants. Their long roots help loosen the ground soil as and when they are grown, which means, they further enrich the soil. The English peas or shelling peas, as they are widely known, are left to fully ripen. When they turn plump and round, they are shelled and the peas are then cooked without the pod.

Benefits & Features

Other than the fact that they are a delightful sight to look at, they also come with a lot of nutritional value. Toss them with some butter or herbs and garlic and it is a perfect side to a hearty meal. With a high source of vitamin and minerals, they help fight infections and contributes towards a healthier life in general. They are also high in carbohydrates, but less in calories, which means you can consume as much as you want without putting those extra kilos. If that’s not enough, then the fact that they contain a good amount of fiber, amino acids, proteins and folic acid should make you want to eat a cup full of English peas.