Minted peas
Minted Peas Recipe - Refreshing and Flavorful Side Dish
Introduction
Minted peas is a classic side dish that combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the refreshing flavor of mint. This dish is perfect for spring and summer when peas are in season and at their peak freshness.
History
Minted peas have been a popular dish in British cuisine for centuries. The combination of peas and mint is a classic pairing that dates back to medieval times. Peas were a staple food in the diets of the working class, and mint was often used to add flavor to simple dishes.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Heat butter in a medium-sized pan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and add chopped mint. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, keeping it warm.
- Place peas in the top half of a steamer. Cover with scallions and whole mint leaves. Place over rapidly boiling water and steam for 4 minutes or until peas are just tender.
- Remove from heat and discard the whole mint leaves. Toss peas with mint butter, add salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
- This recipe is from 'The Rediscovered Bean' by Judith Choate, published by Doubleday Canada in 1992, ISBN 0-385-25307. Serves 6.
Variations
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- Stir in some crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use fresh peas for the best flavor and texture.
- Steaming the peas helps to retain their vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Adjust the amount of mint to suit your personal taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Minted peas can be served as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a vegetarian main course. They also make a great addition to salads or grain bowls.
Cooking Techniques
Steaming the peas helps to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. Be sure not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh mint, you can use dried mint instead.
- You can use olive oil or vegetable oil instead of clarified butter.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the mint butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Steam the peas just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Presentation Ideas
Serve minted peas in a decorative serving dish garnished with a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Minted peas pair well with a variety of main dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian entrees. They also complement dishes with bold flavors, such as curries or spicy stir-fries.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of minted peas contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of minted peas contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of minted peas contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of minted peas contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Minted peas are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.
Summary
Minted peas are a nutritious side dish that is high in fiber and vitamins. They are a great addition to any meal.
Summary
Minted peas are a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for spring and summer. With their vibrant color and fresh flavor, they are sure to be a hit at your next meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for minted peas. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Alice who lived in the countryside. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables.
Alice was bustling around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and humming to herself. When I asked her what she was making, she excitedly told me about her famous minted peas recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on. It had been passed down through the generations, a cherished family heirloom.
I watched as Alice worked her magic in the kitchen, adding a handful of fresh mint leaves to the peas and seasoning them with salt and pepper. The combination of the sweet peas and the aromatic mint was simply divine. I couldn't wait to try it for myself.
As we sat down to dinner that evening, I took my first bite of the minted peas. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.
Over the next few weeks, I visited Alice often, watching her make the minted peas and taking careful notes. She showed me how to pick the freshest peas, how to cook them just right so they were tender but still had a bit of bite, and how to infuse them with the delicate flavor of mint.
I practiced making the minted peas every chance I got, tweaking the recipe here and there until it was just right. And soon enough, I had mastered it. I was so proud of myself for carrying on this cherished family tradition.
Years went by, and the minted peas became a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties. Everyone raved about them, asking for the recipe and begging me to make them again and again. I loved being able to share this special dish with my loved ones, knowing that it brought joy and comfort to all who tried it.
As I grew older, I realized that the recipe for minted peas was more than just a dish - it was a connection to my past, to the strong women who had come before me and passed down their knowledge and traditions. It was a reminder of the importance of family and the power of food to bring people together.
And so, every time I make a batch of minted peas, I think of my friend Alice and her grandmother, and all the generations of women who came before me. I am grateful for their wisdom and their love, and I am proud to carry on their legacy through this simple but delicious recipe.
So the next time you sit down to a bowl of minted peas, take a moment to savor the flavors and the memories that come with it. And remember that behind every recipe lies a story, waiting to be shared and passed down to the next generation.
Categories
| Clarified Butter Recipes | Locto Recipes | Mint Recipes | Pea Recipes |