If you’re looking for a fresh, simple, and downright delicious way to enjoy vegetables, the Zipper Peas Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Featuring sweet, tender zipper peas simmered to perfection with salt pork, garlic, and onions, this dish bursts with flavor and comfort. It’s easy to make but packed with character, delivering a cozy, homey vibe with every spoonful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Zipper Peas Recipe will quickly become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in creating the beautiful balance of taste and texture in this dish. Crisp freshness comes from the zipper peas, heartiness from the salt pork, and aromatic depth from the onions and garlic.
- 3 cups fresh shelled Zipper peas: The star of the dish, bringing a subtle sweetness and tender bite.
- 3 cups chicken stock (or water): Adds a savory base that gently simmers the peas to tender perfection.
- 2.5 ounces salt pork (about 3 slices, chopped): Infuses the dish with a rich, smoky, and salty flavor.
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth, softening into a luscious backdrop.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a punch of aroma and savory warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a gentle, spicy kick to brighten the peas.
How to Make Zipper Peas Recipe
Step 1: Render the Salt Pork
Start by placing the chopped salt pork in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. As it slowly cooks, the fat will render out, creating a flavorful base oil and browning the pork for about five minutes. This step sets the stage by infusing the dish with a rich, smoky undertone you’ll love.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Next, add the finely chopped onions to the pork and continue cooking while stirring frequently for about six minutes. The onions will become soft and slightly caramelized, adding a natural sweetness that balances the salt pork’s savoriness. Just before finishing this step, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its fragrant charm without turning bitter.
Step 3: Combine Peas and Seasonings
Now it’s time for the zipper peas to join the party. Add them along with kosher salt, black pepper, and the chicken stock to the saucepan. Turn up the heat to medium-high and bring everything to a gentle boil. This helps the peas start to soften and soak up all the savory components you’ve built so far.
Step 4: Simmer and Skim
Reduce the heat to low, keeping the pot uncovered, and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. You might notice some foam forming on the surface—that’s normal! Use a slotted spoon to skim this off and discard it, keeping the broth clear and the flavors clean.
Step 5: Check for Doneness and Adjust Seasoning
After the simmer, taste the peas. Ideally, they should be tender but still hold a bit of their natural texture—no mush here! If they’re a little crunchy, give them a few more minutes. This step lets you tailor the dish to your personal texture preference. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, balancing out the seasoning perfectly.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once your zipper peas have reached deliciousness, serve them straight away. Their warm, comforting flavors are best enjoyed fresh and hot, ready to complement any meal or be savored all on their own.
How to Serve Zipper Peas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich peas. For a subtle crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or fried shallots make fantastic toppings that elevate the dish visually and texturally.
Side Dishes
Zipper peas pair beautifully with simple roasted meats, like chicken or pork, as well as with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that flavorful broth. You can also serve them alongside cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal that hits all the comforting notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the zipper peas slightly cooled in a vibrant salad mixed with grains such as farro or barley. Alternatively, blend half into a velvety soup with a squeeze of lemon for brightness, using the rest as garnish to add texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover zipper peas keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead side to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the zipper peas, cool them completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. They’ll maintain good flavor and texture for up to two months. Keep in mind that peas may soften somewhat after freezing and thawing, so they’re best used in soups or casseroles afterward.
Reheating
Reheat the Zipper Peas Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the texture smooth. Adding a splash of chicken stock or water as you warm them helps prevent drying out and revives their vibrant flavor.
FAQs
What are zipper peas and how are they different from regular peas?
Zipper peas are a fresh, flavorful variety of peas prized for their sweetness and tender texture. They differ from regular garden peas with a slightly thinner pod and unique taste, making them excellent for simmering in dishes like this recipe.
Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
Absolutely! While chicken stock adds more depth and umami, water works perfectly fine if you want a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version. Just adjust seasonings accordingly to keep the dish flavorful.
Is salt pork necessary or can I substitute it?
Salt pork brings a distinctive salty richness that really makes this recipe shine. If unavailable, you could substitute with thick-cut bacon or pancetta, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly.
How do I know when the zipper peas are cooked properly?
The peas should be tender but still hold some bite—think of a gentle softness without being mush. Sampling them towards the end of cooking helps you decide if they need more time or are just right.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
You can definitely get creative by adding diced carrots, celery, or even fresh corn kernels for extra color and crunch. Add these along with the onions so they cook evenly with the peas.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a bowl of tender, savory zipper peas simmered just right, and this Zipper Peas Recipe makes it effortless to bring that home to your table. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a dish full of warmth and fresh flavor that feels like a hug in every bite.
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Zipper Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
A comforting and simple dish featuring fresh shelled zipper peas simmered with salt pork, onions, and garlic in chicken stock. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the peas enhanced by savory pork and aromatic seasonings, perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh shelled zipper peas
- 3 cups chicken stock (can substitute water)
- 2.5 ounces salt pork (about 3 slices, chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the salt pork: Add the salt pork to a medium-size saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook the pork for about five minutes or until it is just starting to brown, stirring frequently to render the fat and prevent sticking.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and continue cooking for another six minutes, stirring often until the onions become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Add peas and seasonings: Stir in the fresh shelled zipper peas, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and pour in the chicken stock. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the liquid to a boil to build flavor and cook the peas.
- Simmer the peas: Reduce the heat to low and let the peas simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and if foam forms on the surface, skim it off gently with a slotted spoon to keep the broth clear.
- Check doneness and adjust seasoning: After 20 minutes, taste the peas to check for tenderness and seasoning. The peas should be tender but still hold their shape. If they are still crunchy, cook for a few more minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Serve immediately: Once cooked to your liking, serve the zipper peas hot as a savory side dish or light main course.
Notes
- Using fresh, smaller zipper peas will reduce cooking time and improve tenderness.
- If chicken stock is not available, water can be substituted, but chicken stock adds more depth of flavor.
- Be sure to frequently stir during cooking to avoid burning the salt pork or vegetables.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the salt pork and use vegetable broth.
- Skimming foam ensures a cleaner broth and better presentation.
