Purple hull peas, named for their purple pods, are a Southern legume and part of the field pea family, which also includes favorites like zipper peas, crowder peas, black-eyed peas and lady cream peas. Though they are called a pea, they are more closely related to the bean family of vegetables. Purple hull peas have a firm texture much like lima beans with a less sweet, earthy and more robust taste. One variety of the purple hull pea is the pink-eyed pea, named for the pink coloration around the “eye” — the place where it attaches to the pod.
Commercially, purple hull peas are found most often in the South and are sold fresh in local grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Legumes are valued for all their nutrients but especially for their high amounts of vegetable protein and when combined with various nuts, seeds and grains in the diet, make a complete protein.
Peak Time: July to September
Average Price: $4.00 per pound unshelled/$4.50 per pound shelled
Tips for Selection and Storage: For unshelled purple hull peas, look for full-size pods that have a definite purple color and are flexible to the touch. The unshelled pods should feel full and will split easily. When choosing shelled peas, look for those that are fresh looking and do not appear dried or cracked. Avoid those with moist spots or signs of decay. All fresh field peas like purple hulls are best stored in the refrigerator, either in their pods or shelled, in a perforated plastic bag or container for up to a week. Peas can also be blanched for about two minutes in boiling water, cooled rapidly and frozen for later use.
Tips for Preparation: Shell and wash peas gently under running water to remove dirt and debris. Purple hull peas can then be cooked slowly in stock or water with onions and a smoked ham hock, then seasoned to taste. Broth left over from cooked peas makes an excellent base for vegetable soups and stews. Southern purple hull peas can be mixed with bell peppers, rice and tomatoes for Hoppin’ John. Purple hull peas — like other field peas — also make a great summer salad with vine ripe tomatoes.
Nutritional Highlights: Purple hull peas are an excellent source of potassium and dietary fiber. They are a good source of vegetable protein, iron and B vitamins. One-half cup of cooked peas contains about 80 calories.
