Mushy peas

Mushy peas are a creamy British side dish made with peas and onions, seasoned and blended to a smooth texture. This quick recipe uses light sour cream for added richness, perfect alongside fish and chips or on its own.

11 Dec 2025
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tsp olive oil
1 onion
3 cups peas
1/3 cup light sour cream
1/3 cup vegetable broth
salt & pepper to taste
Mushy peas

Mushy peas are a classic British side dish that pairs perfectly with fish and chips or can be enjoyed on their own. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and creamy version using simple ingredients like peas, onion, and light sour cream. Ready in no time, it makes for a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Coarsely chop one onion.
- Measure out your peas. If using fresh peas, rinse them; if using frozen peas, there's no need to thaw them.
2. Sauté the Onion:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the onions cook evenly and do not burn.
3. Cook the Peas:
- Add the 3 cups of peas to the saucepan with the onions.
- Pour in the 1/3 cup of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook until the peas are tender, about 5 minutes for fresh peas and a bit less for frozen peas.
4. Mash the Peas:
- Once the peas are cooked, remove the saucepan from heat.
- Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, lightly mash the peas to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, mash less; for smoother mushy peas, blend more thoroughly.
5. Add Sour Cream:
- Stir in the 1/3 cup of light sour cream to the mixture.
- Continue to mash or blend until the sour cream is fully incorporated and the peas reach your desired level of creaminess.
6. Season:
- Taste the mushy peas and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir to evenly distribute the seasoning.
7. Serve:
- Serve the mushy peas hot as a side dish or as a component of your favorite meal.

Mushy peas are a delightful and vibrant side dish that can elevate any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you get a creamy and flavorful dish every time. By following these tips, you can customize the dish to your taste and enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade mushy peas.

Mushy peas FAQ:

How long do I need to cook fresh or frozen peas for mushy peas?

For fresh peas, cook them for about 5 minutes until tender after adding them to the sautéed onions and vegetable broth. If you're using frozen peas, they may take slightly less time, usually around 3-4 minutes.

What can I use instead of light sour cream in this recipe?

You can substitute light sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar creaminess and tanginess. Alternatively, a vegan sour cream or cream cheese can also work well if you want a dairy-free option.

Can I store leftover mushy peas, and if so, how?

Yes, leftover mushy peas can be stored 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 vegetable broth if needed to restore creaminess.

What pan size is best for making mushy peas?

A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for making mushy peas. It should be large enough to comfortably sauté the onions and hold the peas and broth without overflowing.

How can I achieve the perfect consistency for my mushy peas?

Start by lightly mashing the peas with a potato masher or an immersion blender. For a chunkier texture, mash less. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend more thoroughly until creamy.

Tips:

- Use fresh or frozen peas for the best flavor and color.

- Make sure to finely chop the onion to ensure it cooks evenly and integrates well with the peas.

- Feel free to adjust the thickness of your mushy peas by varying the amount of vegetable broth you use.

- For an extra burst of flavor, add a touch of mint or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

- Use a blender or food processor to achieve a smooth consistency if you prefer your mushy peas to have a more uniform texture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 110kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 4.81g
Sugar 6g
Fat 4.54g

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