Description
Simple, buttery, and packed with flavor, Butter Peas are the perfect comfort side dish! Tender peas are simmered in a rich, buttery sauce, enhanced with a touch of seasoning for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ingredients
- 1 minced shallot or 2 tablespoons minced yellow onion
- 1/4 teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper
- 1–2 tablespoons of water for steaming
Instructions
Let’s take a closer look at making perfect butter peas with these step-by-step instructions.
Preparation:
You can use fresh or frozen peas. We used fresh peas, so shell them into a colander and give them a really good rinse. You’ll need 2½ cups of peas for the best serving size. Frozen peas work great right from the freezer – no thawing needed.
Cooking:
- Set your saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely.
- To improve flavor, add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until it smells fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Put your peas in the pan with 1 tablespoon of water. A vital timing tip: Cook and stir occasionally for 2-4 minutes.
- Turn the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 more minutes. You’ll know the peas are ready when they float to the surface.
- Take the pan off the heat once the peas are tender enough. Add salt and pepper to your taste.
To use the boiling method instead:
- Get your water to a rapid boil
- Cook peas for exactly 60 seconds
- Drain and toss with butter right away
Pro tip: Keep the lid slightly open while simmering so steam can escape. This will give you perfectly cooked peas that stay bright green and sweet.
Note that great butter peas should never be overcooked. They should pop in your mouth while keeping their bright color.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes