All are round-podded similar to standard pea pods in appearance, but more fleshy and free from pod-wall fiber when mature; some are also stringless. These tasty peas are eaten pod and all - the pod walls are thick, sweet and juicy. Pods are soft, tender, and edible. Snap peas are so crisp, sweet, and succulent that they may be snapped into pieces and mixed into salads or eaten whole as an appetizer. Like snow peas, they also may be stir-fried or steamed.
Snap peas have a distinctive appearance and flavor. The pods are round and reach a length of 2à to 3 inches at maturity. Pod walls are rather thin in comparison with snow peas. Mature pods require "stringing," which is the removal of a membranous thread-like string running the length of the pod on top and bottom. This is similar to the string in the pods of early bean varieties that gave them the name "string beans." Occasionally there will be overgrown, fibrous pods that may be shelled and combined with other more tender edible pods.
Enjoy its delicious taste as a snack, with dips, and sliced into salads. Pull the string from the pods and saute them briefly in butter until the pods turn darker green, adding just a touch of ginger and soy sauce. For a quick and delectable side dish, simply steam them like green beans.