There’s something truly heartwarming about classic comfort food, and Creamed Potatoes and Peas is the epitome of culinary comfort. This dish is a timeless classic that brings together the smooth and buttery richness of creamy mashed potatoes with the sweet, crisp burst of green peas. Whether you’re enjoying a family dinner, hosting a special gathering, or simply seeking a taste of nostalgia, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated, if possible)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Peel and Dice the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling the potatoes, then dice them into even-sized chunks. This ensures that they cook evenly and result in a creamy texture.
- Boil the Potatoes:
- Place the diced potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes simmer until they’re tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork, typically about 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Peas:
- While the potatoes are cooking, you can cook the peas. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain. If using frozen peas, simply cook them according to the package instructions.
- Drain and Mash:
- Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them thoroughly. Then, return them to the pot and mash them until smooth using a potato masher or ricer. Avoid using a food processor, as it can make the potatoes gluey.
- Add Cream and Butter:
- In the same pot, add the butter, heavy cream, and milk to the mashed potatoes. Stir gently over low heat until the butter is melted, and the mixture is heated through.
- Season and Add Peas:
- Season the creamy potato mixture with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Then, gently fold in the cooked peas, allowing them to mingle with the creamy goodness.
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your Creamed Potatoes and Peas. The cheese adds a delightful tangy depth to the dish.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If you’d like to add a touch of elegance, garnish your creation with fresh parsley. Serve the dish hot, and watch as it disappears before your eyes.
Variation:
While the classic Creamed Potatoes and Peas recipe is a timeless favorite, you can always add your own unique twist to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Cheesy Delight: Add some grated cheddar or Gruyere cheese for a cheesy potato and pea casserole.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for an earthy and aromatic flavor profile.
- Bacon Bliss: Crisp up some bacon bits and mix them into your dish for a smoky, savory twist.
- Vegan Friendly: Swap out dairy for plant-based options like almond milk and vegan butter to create a creamy, vegan version of this classic.
Tips:
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are an excellent choice for creamy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content.
- Be patient when mashing: Taking your time to mash the potatoes thoroughly will result in a smoother texture.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg: The aroma and flavor of freshly grated nutmeg are incomparable to pre-ground versions.
- Don’t overwork the potatoes: Overmixing can make the potatoes gluey, so be gentle when adding the cream and butter.
In the world of comforting classics, Creamed Potatoes and Peas reign supreme. The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes combined with the sweet, vibrant peas create a dish that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of your meal, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
So, the next time you’re in need of a little culinary comfort, consider whipping up a batch of Creamed Potatoes and Peas. It’s a dish that transcends generations, bringing together the simple joys of home-cooked food in every bite. Enjoy!
