Creamed Peas With Dill

Creamed peas bring so much comfort to any meal and make everyday dinners feel just a little more special. This creamy side dish is impossibly easy and turns a bag of frozen peas into something warm and rich that my whole family always gets excited about.

I tried this for the first time when my grandma visited and now it is the dish my kids ask for every Thanksgiving alongside mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• Salted butter: brings rich, savory flavor to the sauce use real butter for best taste
• All-purpose flour: thickens the cream so the peas are silky instead of soupy opt for unbleached flour if you can
• Sea salt: adds pure mineral depth and brightens all the flavors try flaky salt for an extra special finish
• White pepper: gives the sauce mild warmth without dark flecks make sure it is fresh for the most fragrant result
• Half n half: creates a creamy base that is not too heavy stick with real dairy for authentic texture unless needed
• Frozen peas: sweet and tender look for peas that are bright green with no freezer burn
• Fresh dill: brings a gentle herby flavor and balances the richness always choose bright green sprigs with feathery leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter:

Place the salted butter in a large 12 inch skillet over medium heat Allow it to melt fully and just start to brown for a subtle nutty undertone

Make the Roux:

Add the flour sea salt and white pepper directly into the melted butter Stir them constantly for about one minute The mixture should bubble and thicken slightly but not darken too much This builds a comforting flavor base

Whisk in Cream:

Gradually pour the half n half into the skillet Start whisking right away and keep whisking until the mixture is completely smooth There should be no lumps and the sauce will look pale and silky

Cook the Peas:

Add the frozen peas straight into the skillet and toss in about a teaspoon of freshly chopped dill Stir until all the peas are coated in the creamy sauce Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce thickens and the peas are heated through This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes

Finish and Serve:

Taste the creamed peas and adjust the salt and white pepper if needed Spoon them into a serving dish and top with a few sprigs of fresh dill and a pat of butter for extra gloss and flavor

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One of my favorite things about this dish is the fresh dill which always makes the whole kitchen smell amazing With every bite I remember family gatherings where everyone reached for seconds and the bowl of creamy peas disappeared before anything else

Storage Tips

Allow creamed peas to cool to room temperature then transfer them to an airtight container They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat gently in a pan over low heat and add a splash of extra half n half if the sauce has thickened too much

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have half n half you can use equal parts milk and cream or even whole milk with a little extra butter Dairy free half and half alternatives also work well If fresh dill is unavailable flat leaf parsley provides a fresh note though dill is classic

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Serving Suggestions

Creamed peas are a versatile side that pair beautifully with roasted meats grilled chicken or baked fish They also love being spooned over creamy mashed potatoes or toasted bread for a simple cozy meal Try them with a squeeze of lemon for brightness or a sprinkle of crispy onions on top

Cultural Context

Creamed peas have roots in classic American home cooking and were a way to stretch garden or canned peas into a satisfying side With their mild flavor and velvety sauce they remain a staple for potlucks and holiday dinners especially in the Midwest and South

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep the sauce from getting lumpy?

Whisk the half 'n' half slowly into the flour and butter mixture, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.

→ Can you use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Fresh peas can be used; just blanch them before adding so they stay tender and bright.

→ What herbs pair well with creamed peas?

Dill adds a fresh, aromatic note, but parsley or chives also work nicely for extra flavor.

→ How do you reheat leftovers?

Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low, stirring often to prevent sticking and keep the sauce smooth.

→ What can be served alongside creamed peas?

They pair well with roasted chicken, turkey, ham, or even as a topping for buttered toast or baked potatoes.