Creamed Peas: A Classic Comfort Side Dish
Creamed peas are a timeless side dish that brings a touch of nostalgia to the dinner table. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for adding a creamy, savory element to your meals. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or enjoying it on its own, creamed peas are sure to satisfy. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can whip up this comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper or black pepper
- 4 cups frozen peas
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
Directions
1. Melt the Butter:
Start by melting the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat. The butter serves as the base for your creamy sauce, giving it a rich, buttery flavor.
2. Make the Roux:
Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and garlic powder (if using) until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. This combination of butter and flour, known as a roux, is essential for thickening the sauce. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Thicken the Sauce:
Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir frequently. Cook the mixture over medium-high heat until it thickens, which should take about 6 minutes. As the sauce thickens, season it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Add the Peas:
Stir in the frozen peas, making sure they are evenly coated in the sauce. Cook the peas, stirring frequently, until they are heated through, which should take about 4 minutes. The peas will absorb the creamy sauce, becoming tender and flavorful.
5. Finish with Cream:
For an extra touch of richness, stir in the heavy cream (if using). This step adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish. Check for seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
Garnish the creamed peas with additional pepper, a pat of butter, and fresh chopped chives or dill if desired. Serve them warm, and enjoy this comforting and satisfying side dish.
Recipe Notes
Creamed peas are a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit more garlic flavor, feel free to add the garlic powder when making the roux. The optional heavy cream adds a richer, creamier texture, but the dish is still delicious without it.
This side dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to grilled steak, and is a great way to add some green to your plate. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Creamed peas are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a comforting, creamy texture and a burst of flavor that’s sure to please. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a holiday feast, this classic dish is always a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade creamed peas!
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Creamed Peas
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
These Creamed Peas are a classic side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The creamy sauce, made from a simple roux of butter, flour, and milk, envelops each pea in rich, velvety goodness. A touch of garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor, while the option of stirring in heavy cream at the end enhances the dish’s luxurious texture.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
2 cups whole milk or half and half
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon white pepper or black pepper
4 cups frozen peas
¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour and garlic powder (if using) into the melted butter until fully incorporated and smooth.
Thicken the Sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk and cook, stirring frequently, over medium-high heat until the mixture thickens, about 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook, stirring frequently, until the peas are heated through, about 4 minutes.
Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and check for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Garnish with additional pepper, a pat of butter, and fresh chopped chives or dill if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180