Description
There’s something magical about the combination of sweet peas and creamy sauce. It’s nostalgic (reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen) but still feels modern enough to serve to guests. This recipe hits that sweet spot between “impressive” and “I only had 15 minutes to make this.”
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender. For frozen peas, cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Start the base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add flavor: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful aroma.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle flour over the butter mixture, stirring constantly. This is your thickening agent, so keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until it looks like wet sand.
- Create the sauce: Gradually pour in the milk or half-and-half, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. (Don’t panic if you get a few—they’ll cook out!)
- Thicken it up: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until it begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add richness: Stir in the heavy cream, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Gently fold in your cooked peas, making sure they get completely coated in that delicious sauce.
- Warm through: Let everything heat together for 2-3 minutes until the peas are warm and the flavors have mingled.
- Finish: If you’re using mint, stir it in right before serving for a fresh pop of flavor.
Notes
- If your sauce looks a little lumpy at first, don’t throw in the towel! Just keep whisking—I promise it will smooth out as it cooks.
Want to make this dish your own? Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Sometimes I even toss in a little crumbled bacon when I’m feeling indulgent!
I discovered the power of these cream peas about five years ago when my pickiest eater actually asked for seconds. They’ve been in regular rotation ever since, and I’ve brought them to countless potlucks where people always ask for the recipe (as if it’s some complicated secret!).
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Southern