Classic British-style Mushy Peas

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) dried marrowfat peas 2 cups (400g) dried marrowfat peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the dried marrowfat peas and place them in a large bowl. Cover with water and let them soak overnight.
2. 2.
   Drain the soaked peas and transfer them to a large saucepan. Add enough water to cover the peas by about an inch.
3. 3.
   Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the peas for about 1 hour or until they are tender.
4. 4.
   In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
5. 5.
   Once the peas are cooked, drain them and return them to the saucepan. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, along with the chopped mint leaves.
6. 6.
   Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash the peas until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. If desired, add a little water or vegetable broth to adjust the thickness.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Marrowfat peas — Soaking the peas overnight is crucial to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. If you can't find marrowfat peas, you can substitute them with split green peas.
• Fresh mint leaves — The mint adds a refreshing flavor to the dish. If you don't have fresh mint, you can use dried mint, but reduce the quantity by half.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra creamy texture, you can pass the mashed peas through a fine sieve.
• If you prefer a chunkier consistency, mash the peas with a fork instead of using a blender.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist to the flavor.
• Customize the dish by adding a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
• Leftover mushy peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Mushy Peas as a side dish alongside traditional fish and chips, or as a delicious accompaniment to roasted meats, sausages, or pies. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a comforting and nutritious snack.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Mushy Peas with a sprig of fresh mint and serve them in a small bowl or ramekin to showcase their vibrant green color. Pair them with golden-brown fish and chips for a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.