Peas With Water Chestnuts(Microwave)
A quick and flavorful side dish combining tender peas with crunchy water chestnuts, infused with savory onion and seasoned with bouillon cubes for a comforting vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chopped onion, vegetable bouillon cubes, and water in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Cook, covered, on Full power for 2 to 4 minutes or until tender.
- Add flour to the onion mixture and stir well.
- Cook, covered, on Full power for 1 to 2 minutes, or until thickened.
- Add frozen peas, drained water chestnuts, and salt to the casserole.
- Cook, covered, on Full power for 7 to 9 minutes, or until peas are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your dish, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onion mixture. If you don't have vegetable bouillon cubes, you can substitute with vegetable broth or stock. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after cooking. Frozen peas can be swapped with fresh peas if in season, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peas with water chestnuts as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. They pair beautifully with Acorn Squash Slices With Lemon Glaze for a colorful plate. For a complete meal, consider serving over a bed of rice or quinoa, or alongside a fresh salad. This dish also complements vegan recipes, making it a versatile addition to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water to help restore moisture during reheating. This dish can also be frozen, but the texture of the peas may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas With Water Chestnuts(Microwave) contains roughly 414 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2024mg per serving (88% 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 frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but keep in mind that they require a shorter cooking time. Adjust the cooking duration to about 4-6 minutes or until tender, as fresh peas cook faster than frozen ones.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you don't have water chestnuts, you can substitute with chopped jicama for a similar crunch. Alternatively, sliced mushrooms can add a different texture, though they will alter the flavor slightly.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the onion mixture. You could also add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to taste for an extra kick.
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).