Welcome to our comfort food section! Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Creamed Potatoes and Peas. This classic dish combines tender petite red potatoes and sweet garden peas in a creamy, savory sauce. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound petite red potatoes
- 1 cup garden peas (frozen or fresh)
- 4 tablespoons golden butter
- 1/4 cup white flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup whipping cream or half and half
- 1 teaspoon savory chicken bouillon
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Peas
- Cook the Potatoes: Wash the petite red potatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Peas: If using fresh peas, add them to the pot with the potatoes during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. If using frozen peas, cook according to package instructions or microwave until tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the golden butter.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter, stirring constantly to make a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and whipping cream (or half and half) until smooth. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Bouillon: Stir in the savory chicken bouillon until fully dissolved.
Step 3: Combine and Season
- Add Potatoes and Peas: Add the cooked potatoes and peas to the cream sauce, stirring gently to combine and heat through.
- Season: Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the creamed potatoes and peas hot as a side dish. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Peeling Potatoes: You can leave the skins on the petite red potatoes for added texture and nutrition, or peel them if you prefer a smoother dish.
- Consistency: If the cream sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer to thicken.
- Bouillon Substitute: If you don’t have chicken bouillon, you can use chicken broth instead of the water used for boiling potatoes.
Variations
Herbed Creamed Potatoes and Peas
Add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, parsley, or dill to the cream sauce for extra flavor.
Bacon Creamed Potatoes and Peas
Cook 4-5 slices of bacon until crispy, crumble them, and add to the dish just before serving for a smoky, savory addition.
Garlic Creamed Potatoes and Peas
Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the butter and cook for 1 minute before adding the flour for a garlicky twist.
Cheesy Creamed Potatoes and Peas
Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce for a cheesy variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or baby potatoes. Just cut them into similar bite-sized pieces.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so you might need to add a bit more milk when reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
Creamed potatoes and peas make a great side dish for roasted chicken, grilled steak, pork chops, or fish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Use a plant-based butter and substitute the milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon.
This Creamed Potatoes and Peas recipe is a classic and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender potatoes, sweet peas, and rich cream sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful side dish with your loved ones!