Snow peas are a common staple in Chinese food. If you enjoy vegetables, you'll love the taste of these fresh, bright-tasting peas. Here's what you should know about snow peas, as well as a few examples of how they are incorporated into Chinese cuisine. 

What Are Snow Peas? 

Snow peas come in long, flat pods that have an oblong shape with pointed ends. Inside the pods, the small peas are attached to a stem. Each pod holds up to seven tiny, round peas. The pods come with a fibrous string that is removed before consumption to avoid an unpleasant texture. The peas and the pods are often eaten as one, and ripe, ready-to-eat snow peas should have a crunchy texture that softens as they're cooked. 

Snow peas are found worldwide, and varieties are available in China, Japan, Holland, and France. The name is derived from the ability this vegetable has to survive in frosty conditions. These peas are also good for your health since they're rich in potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and other nutrients that support the body and boost your brain's health. They're also valued in traditional Chinese medicine for their cleansing properties. Practitioners of Chinese medicine consume them to clear out the digestive tract and to support the liver. You can find snow peas at most grocery stores, including Asian specialty shops. 

How Are Snow Peas Used in Chinese Food? 

Snow peas are a common ingredient in stir-fried dishes. Therefore, you might find them in lo mein and chow mein. Since they're so flavorful and fresh, they're also served in specialty Chinese food dishes like snow peas and chicken or snow peas and beef. They also taste great on their own. You can cook them with a light coating of sesame oil, a squeeze of lemon, and some sesame seeds for a delicious and fresh side dish or snack. 

If you want to enjoy snow peas in your next meal, head to Hong Wah Restaurant in Penfield, NY. This authentic Chinese restaurant was the 2015 winner of Rochester's ROCs Best Asian Cuisine and continues to be a local favorite. They use top-quality ingredients to produce delightful dishes. Learn more about their menu online or call (585) 385-2808 if you have any questions.