Creamed Ham And Peas
Creamed ham and peas offers a comforting, creamy dish with savory ham and sweet peas, perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner option for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan and stir in the flour, being careful not to burn the mixture.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in baking powder.
- Add diced cooked ham and cooked peas to the white sauce and mix well.
- Season as desired with salt and pepper or other preferred seasonings.
- Reheat the mixture gently before serving.
- Serve with baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, or on toast.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth sauce, whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly before adding the milk. If you want to lighten the dish, consider substituting half of the milk with low-sodium chicken broth. For added flavor, you can incorporate sautéed onions or garlic into the mixture. This dish is a comforting classic, much like American recipes featuring hearty ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Creamed ham and peas pairs beautifully with baked or mashed potatoes, making for a hearty meal. You can also serve it on toast for a delightful brunch option. For a fresh contrast, consider adding a side salad or steamed vegetables. This dish complements other comforting classics like Old Fashion Sugar Cream Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwave reheating as it can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Ham And Peas contains roughly 879 calories, with 10g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2227mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. They are often more convenient and can save you prep time. Just add them directly to the sauce without thawing; they will cook quickly in the warm mixture.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, diced mushrooms or cooked lentils can be excellent substitutes for ham. They provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well. For a meaty alternative, try diced turkey or chicken.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and mix in the ham and peas ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before serving. Just be aware that the sauce may thicken, so you may need to add a bit of milk when reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).