Grandma'S Sugar Peas
Grandma's Sugar Peas feature tender sweet peas in a rich, buttery roux with a hint of sugar and pepper, offering a comforting side perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a roux with butter; add flour until thickened.
- Add juice of peas to the roux.
- Bring to a boil, then add sweet peas, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil again and simmer until tender.
- To help thicken, squash about 2 tablespoons of peas on the side of the pot and stir into the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of garlic powder to the roux. If you're out of sweet peas, you can substitute with frozen peas, just ensure they are thawed before cooking. Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference. For a twist, adding a dash of nutmeg can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Sugar Peas as a delightful side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. They pair beautifully with Mississippi Green Bean Casserole for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fresh salad or some crusty bread to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the peas mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Sugar Peas contains roughly 299 calories, with 7g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 fresh peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding them to the roux. Fresh peas will add a vibrant color and a slightly different texture, making the dish even more delicious.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative like olive oil or vegan butter, and use plant-based milk to create the roux. The rest of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally vegan, so it will still be a delightful side dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when mixing in the sugar and pepper. You can also try incorporating a splash of hot sauce to the roux for added heat, adjusting to your taste.
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).