pea yellow

How to Make Pea Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pea cake, a beloved traditional Chinese dessert, is celebrated for its delicate sweetness and smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made from yellow split peas, it’s a refreshing treat perfect for warm days. Here’s a simple guide to crafting this classic at home.

Ingredients:

200g yellow split peas, 100g sugar (adjust to taste), 1 tbsp agar powder (or 15g gelatin), a pinch of salt, and optional osmanthus flowers or almond flakes for garnish.

Steps:

1. Soak the Peas: Rinse the split peas and soak in water for 4–6 hours (or overnight) until softened. Drain well.

2. Cook the Peas: Transfer peas to a pot, cover with water, and simmer for 40–60 minutes until mushy. Mash into a fine paste using a blender or food processor.

3. Sweeten and Set: In a non-stick pan, mix the pea paste, sugar, salt, and agar powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).

4. Shape and Chill: Pour the paste into a lightly oiled container or mold. Smooth the top, let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.

5. Serve: Unmold the pea cake and cut into small squares. Garnish with osmanthus flowers or almond flakes if desired.

Enjoy this fragrant, jade-hued dessert as a light snack or after-meal treat!