Creamed Peas
I love the comfort of a creamy dish, and nothing brings that warmth to the table quite like Creamed Peas. This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of family dinners where flavors and laughter filled the air. As a child, I remember my grandmother whipping up this simple yet delightful dish, transforming ordinary peas into a rich, creamy side that everyone adored. The way she simmered the butter and milk together, mixing in the flour to create that luscious sauce, was pure magic. I was always eager to help, whisking and stirring, captivated by how such humble ingredients could create something so satisfying.
Today, Creamed Peas has become a staple in my own kitchen. Whether it’s served alongside a roast chicken for Sunday dinner or as a comforting weeknight side, it never fails to impress. The creamy texture and subtle seasoning make it a perfect companion to any main dish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just a few minutes to come together. I often find myself making this recipe when I want to bring a touch of nostalgia to my meals while ensuring that everyone at the table leaves with a smile. So, let’s dive into why this dish is so special and how you can recreate it at home.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
180 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
9 g
Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan
Why This Creamed Peas Stands Out
It’s A Classic Comfort Food
There’s something undeniably comforting about Creamed Peas. It embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals, making it the perfect side dish for family gatherings and cozy dinners. The combination of butter, milk, and peas creates a rich, velvety sauce that pairs beautifully with various main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled fish.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One of the best parts of this recipe is how few ingredients you need. With just butter, flour, milk, and peas, you can whip up a dish that feels luxurious without breaking the bank. It’s a great way to elevate simple frozen peas into something special that everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion
No matter the season, Creamed Peas is a versatile dish. In spring, it complements lighter fare, while in winter, it adds warmth to heartier meals. It’s an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even a comforting family dinner on a chilly evening.
A Quick and Easy Recipe
With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish on the table in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the recipe is easily adaptable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to your liking, making it a crowd pleaser every time.
Kid-Friendly and Wholesome
Kids and adults alike adore Creamed Peas. The creamy texture and mild flavor make it approachable for even the pickiest eaters. It’s an excellent way to get more vegetables on the plate without anyone noticing, and you can feel good about serving it to your family.
Ingredients Overview for Creamed Peas
The ingredients for Creamed Peas are simple yet effective, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that creamy consistency and rich flavor. The key players here are unsalted butter for richness, all-purpose flour for thickening, and frozen peas for that vibrant color and sweetness. Together, they transform into a comforting side dish that will become a favorite in your home.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – This adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This is used to thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – This enhances the flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a more straightforward taste.
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half – This is the base of the cream sauce, contributing to its richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon white pepper or black pepper – This adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 cups frozen peas – The star of the dish, providing sweetness and texture.
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional) – This can be added for extra creaminess and indulgence.
How to Assemble Creamed Peas
Making Creamed Peas is simple and straightforward, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve in no time. Let’s get cooking!
- Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a medium-sized saucepan. Watch as it melts and begins to bubble, releasing a rich aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Whisk the flour and garlic powder (if using) into the melted butter until fully incorporated and smooth. You want to create a roux that is free from lumps.
- Slowly whisk in the milk while cooking, stirring frequently over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on the mixture as it thickens, about six minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Season the mixture with salt and white pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary. The seasoning enhances the overall flavor and balances the creaminess.
- Add the frozen peas to the sauce, stirring constantly. Cook until the peas are heated through, around four minutes. Their vibrant green color will brighten the dish.
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream for an extra layer of richness. This step is optional but highly recommended for indulgence.
- Check the seasonings one final time and adjust if necessary. Taste testing is key to ensuring the flavors are just right.
- Garnish with additional pepper, a pat of butter, and fresh chopped chives or dill for a pop of color and freshness. It’s all about presentation!
- Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes and enjoy the delightful creaminess of Creamed Peas.
Things Worth Knowing
- Using Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are convenient and retain their sweet flavor. They cook quickly and help to maintain the vibrant color of the dish.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer after adding the milk. Just keep stirring to prevent lumps!
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish is perfect alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Ways to Customize
There are countless ways to customize your Creamed Peas to suit your taste. Here are some tips to help you make it your own!
- Storage: Leftover creamed peas should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave and heat at 50% power in 30-second increments or warm slowly over low heat on the stove.
- Freezing: Transfer cooled creamed peas to a freezer-safe Ziploc bag and freeze for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
- Pairings: Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Variations: Add sautéed mushrooms or fresh herbs like dill to enhance the flavor profile.
- Serving Temperature: This dish is best served warm, but you can also serve it at room temperature for a summer gathering.
Pairing Suggestions for Creamed Peas
When it comes to serving Creamed Peas, there are endless possibilities. Here are some suggestions to make your meal complete:
- With Roasted Chicken: The creamy texture of Creamed Peas pairs beautifully with crispy roasted chicken, complementing the savory flavors.
- Grilled Fish: The lightness of grilled fish, such as salmon or tilapia, balances the richness of the creamed peas.
- Mashed Potatoes: Create a comforting plate by serving Creamed Peas alongside fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Steak: For a hearty meal, serve this dish with a juicy steak or pork chop, adding a touch of elegance to your dinner.
- Salads: Balance the richness of Creamed Peas with a crisp, refreshing salad featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Seasonal Pairings: In spring, serve with fresh herbs and greens. In winter, consider adding roasted root vegetables on the side.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Creamed Peas is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with comfort, making it an ideal side for any meal. The creamy texture and the subtle sweetness of the peas make it an unforgettable addition to your dinner table. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your home-cooked meals. Your family will thank you, and it might just become a new favorite!
Creamed Peas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a medium-sized saucepan.
- Whisk the flour and garlic powder (if using) into the butter until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Slowly whisk in the milk while cooking, stirring frequently over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to thicken for about six minutes.
- Season the mixture with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Add the frozen peas to the sauce, stirring constantly until heated through.
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness.
- Check the seasonings one final time.
- Garnish with additional pepper, a pat of butter, and fresh chopped herbs before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover creamed peas should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: Transfer cooled creamed peas to a freezer-safe Ziploc bag and freeze for up to three months.
- Canned Peas: Using canned peas is possible, but they should be added at the very end and cooked for only a couple of minutes.
