Petits Pois Recipe

I’ve totally fallen for this petits pois recipe because it’s a breeze to make and bursts with fresh flavors that remind me of spring. The combination of buttery peas, aromatic onions, and the pop of mint just feels like comfort food reinvented with a modern twist.

The combination of sweetness from the peas, the nuttiness of butter, and the aromatic onion makes this dish sing. And by “this dish,” I mean my version of it.

My version of the dish is not only good for you but also flavorful. Even healthful dishes can falter in the flavor department, but not this one.

The brightness from the mint and the acidity from the lemon juice help it maintain a kind of harmony not often achieved by pureed legumes.

Ingredients

Baby peas: tender, sweet, and full of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

Butter without salt: Contributes a creamy texture and rich flavor to the meal.

Onion: Delivers a mild sweetness and aromatic intricacy.

Mint leaves: a fresh and vibrant flavor, cool and citrusy.

Broth made from chicken or vegetables: Umami enhancer, giving savory depth and richness.

Lemon Juice: Adds sharpness and intensifies inherent flavors (if used).

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound (about 450g) fresh or frozen petits pois (baby peas)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by rinsing the fresh petits pois in cold water, if you are working with fresh peas. If you are using frozen peas, you need not thaw them.

2. In a skillet or saucepan of medium size, over medium heat, melt the butter.

3. In a pan, add the onion, which has been chopped very finely. Sauté this for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until it transforms into a state of translucence and releases an onion-based aroma that fills the room.

4. Add the petits pois, making sure they are well covered with the butter and onions.

5. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. Put a lid on the pan and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, giving it an occasional stir, until the peas are tender but still vibrantly green.

7. Add the freshly chopped mint leaves, mixing well to combine the flavors.

8. Adjust the seasoning as needed, using salt and pepper to taste.

9. If you want, include the lemon juice for an additional touch of brightness and freshness, and mix thoroughly.

10. Serve the petits pois warm, either as a side dish or as a part of a main course. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Strainer or colander
2. Skillet or medium-sized saucepan
3. Cutting board
4. Knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cup
7. Wooden spoon or spatula
8. Lid for the skillet or saucepan

FAQ

• Can I use frozen peas for this recipe? Yes, frozen petits pois work perfectly for this recipe and are convenient when fresh peas are not available.
• Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint leaves?If you don’t have fresh mint leaves, you can use dried mint in a pinch—just 1 teaspoon will work, but add it to taste. Mint is one of several fresh herbs used in this Middle Eastern-inspired salad with so much flavor in every bite.
• Is the lemon juice necessary?Lemon juice is not necessary; however, it provides a bright, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peas and the mint.
• What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?For a dairy-free version of the recipe, you can use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
• How can I make this dish vegetarian?Substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth in order to maintain a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?Certainly, you can make it ahead of time. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge and warm it up nicely before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use olive oil as a dairy-free substitute for unsalted butter.
You can substitute shallots for the small onion if you prefer a milder flavor, or use scallions if you want to incorporate a different twist altogether.
Fresh basil or parsley can be used instead of fresh mint leaves if you prefer a different herb profile.
For convenience, water mixed with a bouillon cube can be used in place of chicken or vegetable broth.
You can swap out lemon juice for a splash of white wine vinegar, or you can leave it out entirely and have a less tangy flavor.

Pro Tips

– Use high-quality butter to enhance the flavor of the dish, as the butter plays a key role in melding the flavors together.

– When sautéing the onion, ensure it is truly translucent before adding the peas to avoid any raw onion taste. This step builds a strong flavor base.

– For an added layer of flavor, you can lightly toast the mint leaves in the butter with the onions for 30 seconds before adding the peas.

– If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mash some of the peas or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the mixture before serving.

– Adding the lemon juice right before serving can provide a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the peas and mint.