Canning purple hull peas can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to preserve the vibrant flavor and nutrition of these delicious legumes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of canning purple hull peas using a pressure cooker. Whether you’re an experienced canner or a novice, this article is designed to give you detailed instructions, tips, and best practices to ensure a successful preservation process.
Understanding Purple Hull Peas
Before we dive into the canning process, let’s explore what purple hull peas are and why they are cherished in Southern cooking.
The Rich History and Flavor of Purple Hull Peas
Purple hull peas, often referred to as “crowder peas,” are a variety of field pea native to the Southern United States. They are distinguished by their purple hulls and are commonly used in dishes like Hoppin’ John, soups, and stews. Their earthy, slightly sweet flavor makes them a favorite in many households.
Nutritional Benefits
Purple hull peas are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. Here are some of the benefits:
- High in Protein: Purple hull peas provide an excellent source of protein, making them a great option for vegetarian and vegan diets.
- Rich in Fiber: The high fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Vitamins and Minerals: They are rich in essential vitamins such as A, C, and several B vitamins, along with important minerals like iron and calcium.
With so many health benefits, canning purple hull peas ensures you can enjoy them year-round.
Preparing to Can Purple Hull Peas
Before you start the canning process, you’ll need to prepare the necessary equipment and ingredients.
Essential Equipment
To can purple hull peas successfully, ensure you have the following equipment:
- Pressure Cooker: A high-quality pressure cooker is essential for safe canning.
- Glass Jars: Use canning jars designed specifically for preserving food, typically pint or quart-sized.
- Two-piece Lids: Ensure you have new lids for each jar to create a proper seal.
- Canning Funnel: This tool helps to fill jars without making a mess.
- Jar Lifters: Essential for safely removing hot jars from the pressure cooker.
Ingredients Needed
The primary ingredient, of course, is long fresh purple hull peas. However, you will also need the following:
- Water: For cooking and filling the jars.
- Salt (optional): If desired, to enhance flavor. The general recommendation is 1/2 teaspoon per pint jar or 1 teaspoon per quart jar.
The Canning Process
Now that you have your equipment and ingredients ready, let’s discuss the step-by-step process of canning purple hull peas using a pressure cooker.
Step 1: Prepping the Peas
Start by thoroughly washing the purple hull peas. This helps to remove dirt and any possible pesticides. Once washed, shell the peas by removing them from their pods. Gently squeeze each pea pod until the peas pop out.
Step 2: Blanching the Peas
Blanching is an important step to preserve color, flavor, and texture.
| Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. |
| 2 | Add the purple hull peas and blanch for 2-3 minutes. |
| 3 | Drain the peas and immerse them in ice water to stop the cooking process. |
Once cooled, drain the peas again and set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Jars
Wash your canning jars in hot, soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and keep them in a hot water bath until you are ready to fill them. This prevents them from cracking when you pour in the hot peas.
Step 4: Filling the Jars
Using your canning funnel, fill each jar with the blanched purple hull peas, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. This space allows for expansion during processing.
Step 5: Adding Water and Salt
Next, pour hot water over the peas, making sure to leave that crucial headspace. If you desire, add salt at this stage—1/2 teaspoon for pint jars and 1 teaspoon for quart jars.
Step 6: Sealing the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on the jars, ensuring they are centered, and screw on the metal bands just fingertip-tight. Do not over-tighten, as this can hinder the sealing process.
Step 7: Pressure Cooking
Now the jars are ready to be processed in the pressure cooker. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill the Pressure Cooker: Add water to the bottom of the pressure cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Load the Jars: Place the filled jars on the rack inside the pressure cooker, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Lock the Lid: Secure the lid of the pressure cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Heat the Cooker: Turn the heat on high until steam escapes from the vent, then lower the heat to maintain pressure.
Recommended Processing Times
The USDA recommends certain processing times and pressures for canning purple hull peas. Processing time will vary depending on your altitude:
| Altitude (Feet) | Pint Processing Time (Minutes) | Quart Processing Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| 0-1,000 | 40 | 45 |
| 1,001-3,000 | 45 | 50 |
| 3,001-6,000 | 50 | 55 |
| Above 6,000 | 55 | 60 |
Ensure that the pressure cooker maintains a steady pressure during the processing time.
Step 8: Cooling the Jars
Once the processing time is up, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to drop naturally. Once the pressure has released completely, carefully remove the lid of the cooker. Using jar lifters, take the jars out and place them on a clean towel or cooling rack.
Step 9: Checking Seals
After the jars have cooled for 12-24 hours, check the seals. A properly sealed jar will have a little indentation in the center of the lid, indicating a vacuum seal. If a jar has not sealed properly, refrigerate it and use it within a week.
Storage and Usage Tips
Once your purple hull peas are safely canned, you can store them in a cool, dark place. Here are some essential storage tips:
Optimal Storage Conditions
- Store your canned peas in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Ensure the temperature remains consistent and does not exceed 70°F.
- Label each jar with the date of canning.
How to Use Canned Purple Hull Peas
Canned purple hull peas can be used in various recipes, making them a versatile addition to your pantry. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate them into your meals:
- Add them to soups and stews for extra protein and flavor.
- Use them as a side dish by sautéing with onions and spices.
Conclusion
Canning purple hull peas in a pressure cooker is a valuable skill that will not only save you money but also allow you to enjoy the rich, delicious flavors of these legumes year-round. With the right preparation, technique, and equipment, you can master the art of canning and create nutritious meals for your family.
So, gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to stock your pantry with delicious, homemade purple hull peas! Happy canning!
What are purple hull peas?
Purple hull peas are a type of cowpea, similar to black-eyed peas, but with a distinctive purple pod. They are known for their creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making them a popular choice for southern dishes. These peas are packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to meals.
These peas are typically grown in warm climates and are harvested when the pods are green and plump. The name “purple hull” comes from the color of the pods, which turn purple when mature. They can be eaten fresh, dried, or canned, and are especially popular in dishes like succotash and as a side vegetable.
Why should I can purple hull peas?
Canning purple hull peas allows you to preserve their freshness and flavor while extending their shelf life. This is particularly beneficial if you have an excess of peas from your garden or if you want to enjoy their taste out of season. Home canning also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives.
Moreover, canned purple hull peas retain most of their nutrients, making them a healthy pantry staple. You can easily incorporate them into various recipes like soups, stews, salads, and casseroles. By canning your own peas, you will always have this delicious and nutritious food readily available whenever you need it.
Is a pressure cooker necessary for canning purple hull peas?
Yes, using a pressure cooker is necessary when canning purple hull peas. These peas are classified as low-acid foods, which means they require a higher processing temperature to eliminate the risk of botulism and ensure safety during storage. A pressure canner creates the necessary environment to safely can these foods.
It’s important to follow the correct pressure and processing times as per canning guidelines to ensure the preservation is effective. Water bath canning is not recommended for low-acid foods, like purple hull peas, because it does not reach the temperature needed to safely eliminate harmful bacteria.
How should I prepare purple hull peas for canning?
Before canning purple hull peas, you need to properly clean and prepare them. Start by selecting fresh, tender peas and removing them from their pods. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to eliminate dirt and any debris. This step is crucial for maintaining the quality of your canned peas and enhancing their flavor.
After washing, you should blanch the peas in boiling water for about two minutes. This process helps to preserve color, flavor, and nutritional value while also stopping enzyme actions that may cause loss of quality over time. After blanching, quickly cool the peas in ice water to halt the cooking process, then drain them before packing into jars for canning.
What ingredients do I need for canning purple hull peas?
The key ingredient for canning purple hull peas is, of course, the peas themselves. Besides the peas, you’ll also need water or broth to pack into the jars. Optionally, you can add salt for flavor, though this is a personal preference and not essential for the preservation process. Some people add spices or herbs to enhance the taste.
You will also need suitable canning jars, lids, and a pressure canner. It’s important to ensure your jars are clean and free of cracks or chips to avoid breakage during the canning process. Having a jar lifter, funnel, and other canning tools on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.
What is the recommended processing time for canned purple hull peas?
The recommended processing time for canning purple hull peas varies depending on your altitude and the size of the jars. Typically, for pint jars, you should process them for around 40 minutes at a pressure of 10 to 15 pounds, depending on your elevation. For quart jars, the processing time increases to about 50 minutes.
It is crucial to consult a trusted canning guide or resource, such as the USDA canning recommendations, to ensure that you follow the correct times and pressures for your specific altitude. This ensures the peas are safely preserved and reduces the risk of spoilage.
How should I store canned purple hull peas after processing?
After processing, let your jars cool completely on a clean, level surface. Ensure that the jars seal properly, indicated by the lids sucking down. Once the jars are cool, you can check the seals by pressing down in the middle of the lid—if it pops back, the jar did not seal properly and should be refrigerated and used soon.
Store your sealed jars in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or basement. Keeping them away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations will help maintain their quality and flavor for a longer duration. Labeling your jars with the canning date can help you keep track of freshness, and properly stored, they can last for up to a year or more.