Snow Peas

Snow peas are flat, edible-podded peas that are a staple in many Asian cuisines. Originating in the Middle East and South Asia, they have been cultivated for thousands of years and are now widely enjoyed around the globe. They possess a fresh, sweet flavor with a subtle grassy note and a satisfying crispness that adds texture to dishes. The pods are tender yet crunchy, making them delightful to eat raw or cooked. In cooking, snow peas hold their shape well, making them ideal for stir-fries and sautés, while also being capable of softening pleasantly in soups and stews.

Notes

When selecting snow peas, look for bright green, flat pods with no signs of yellowing or wilting. Store them in the refrigerator's crisper drawer for up to a week to maintain freshness. Before use, trim the stem ends and stringy filaments if present. Snow peas are generally safe for most diets but, like other legumes, may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Uses

Stir-fries
Salads
Soups
Sautéed side dishes
Spring rolls
Vegetable medleys
Pad Thai

Replacements

Sugar snap peas
Green beans
Zucchini ribbons
Bell pepper strips
Asparagus tips

Golden Syrup

Golden syrup is a sweet, amber-colored liquid derived from sugar cane or sugar beets. Originating in the United Kingdom, it has become a staple in British baking and cooking. The flavor profile is rich and complex, offering a balance of sweetness with subtle caramel and toffee notes. Its smooth, viscous texture makes it a pleasure to drizzle or spread. In cooking, golden syrup is prized for its ability to add moisture and a distinctive sweetness to baked goods, as well as its capacity to prevent sugar crystallization in candies and jams.

Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is a unique winter squash variety known for its flesh, which separates into strands resembling spaghetti when cooked. Originating in the Americas, it has been cultivated for centuries and is celebrated for its versatility in modern cuisine. Its flavor is mild and subtly sweet, with a tender texture akin to al dente pasta. When cooked, it softens considerably but retains a pleasant chewiness. In culinary applications, spaghetti squash holds its shape well, making it an ideal candidate for dishes requiring a pasta substitute. It absorbs sauces and seasonings effectively, enhancing its flavor profile while maintaining a lightness that appeals to health-conscious eaters.

Recipes to try

Sweet Chili Crispy Tofu Lettuce Wraps

Crispy golden tofu tucked into crisp lettuce leaves with a tangy, sweet chili sauce that'll make your taste buds dance.

Watermelon Radish and Goat Cheese Salad

Crisp watermelon radishes mingle with creamy goat cheese in a refreshing, vibrant salad that's as stunning as it is delicious.