International Peas
International Peas is a flavorful, quick side dish featuring tender peas, crunchy water chestnuts, and savory broth, perfect for family dinners and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil peas, water, celery, and bouillon cubes together for 4 or 5 minutes.
- Make a paste of the cornstarch and 1/2 cup of water. Add to the hot vegetable mixture.
- Cook until thickened.
- Just before serving, add sliced water chestnuts and slivered almonds to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon and use vegetable broth instead of water. For added texture, you can also include sliced bell peppers or snap peas. Adjust the thickness by varying the cornstarch amount to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken recipes or a side of jasmine rice, making it a versatile option for any meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for added crunch and color. Consider garnishing with slivered almonds for extra texture and flavor just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency. Microwaving is also an option; use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of International Peas contains roughly 116 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just blanch them for a couple of minutes before adding them to the recipe. Fresh peas will give a bright flavor and vibrant color to the dish. Keep in mind that fresh peas may require less cooking time compared to frozen ones.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you don’t have water chestnuts, you can use sliced jicama or even diced apples for a crunchy texture. Both options will provide a slightly different flavor but will still add a nice bite to the dish. Just remember to add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their crunch.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat to the dish, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve it with a spicy sauce or sriracha on the side for those who enjoy extra spice. This will elevate the flavors and add a kick to the dish.
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).