Potato and pea mash

Potato and pea mash combines creamy potatoes and sweet peas, creating a nutritious side dish. It's simple to prepare and enhances any meal with its comforting flavours.

17 Jan 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

5 potatoes
1 cup peas
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 tbsp butter

Potato and pea mash is a delicious and nutritious side dish that's perfect for any meal. Combining the creaminess of potatoes with the natural sweetness of peas, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.

2. Cook the Potatoes:
- Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Cook the Peas:
- If using fresh peas, add them to the pot with the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking. If using frozen peas, you can add them for just the last 2-3 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can steam or microwave the peas separately until they are tender.

4. Drain and Combine:
- Once the potatoes and peas are cooked, drain them well in a colander.
- Return the drained potatoes and peas to the pot or place them in a large mixing bowl.

5. Mash the Mixture:
- Add the buttermilk and butter to the potatoes and peas while they are still hot.
- Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the mixture until you reach your desired consistency. For a smoother mash, you can pass the mixture through a potato ricer before adding the other ingredients.

6. Season:
- Season the mash with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust accordingly.

7. Serve:
- Serve the potato and pea mash hot. It's a great side dish for meats, fish, or vegetarian dishes.

Potato and pea mash is a versatile and tasty dish that can elevate any meal. It's not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy this on its own or as an accompaniment to your favorite main course.

Potato and pea mash FAQ:

How long do I boil the potatoes for the mash?

Boil the potato chunks for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

What can I use instead of buttermilk in this recipe?

You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, plain yogurt can also be used.

How should I store leftovers of potato and pea mash?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to recover creaminess.

Can I make this mash ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the mash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving, adding extra buttermilk if needed to maintain creaminess.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes as they can result in a gummy mash.

Cooking Tips:

- For an extra creamy texture, use a hand mixer or potato ricer to mash the potatoes instead of a traditional masher.

- If you want a richer flavor, substitute heavy cream for the buttermilk.

- Adding garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme during the boiling process can give the mash a fragrant and savory boost.

- For a vegan version, replace the butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives like olive oil and almond milk.

- To save time, you can use frozen peas. Just thaw them in warm water before adding to the mash.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 270kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 3.41g
Fat 6g

Potato and pea mash