Smashed Minted Peas

Name: Smashed Minted Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 400 g frozen peas; 1 shallot; 200 ml vegetable or chicken stock; 25 g butter, divided; 1 small handful fresh mint leaves, finely chopped; 1 pinch salt; 1 pinch black pepper

These smashed minted peas are buttery, bright, and ready in under 30 minutes. Serve them as a fresh green side with roast chicken, fish, lamb, or a simple weeknight dinner.

Servings4 Portions

Prep Time10 Mins

Cook Time20 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

frozen peas
400 g
shallot
1
vegetable or chicken stock
200 ml
butter, divided
25 g
fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
1 small handful
salt
1 pinch
black pepper
1 pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened but not browned. Pour in the stock, add the frozen peas, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, until the peas are tender.

Remove the pan from the heat and mash the peas roughly with a potato masher, leaving some whole for texture. For a smoother mash, briefly blend with a hand blender, but avoid making it completely pureed. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir in the chopped mint just before serving.

Chef's Tips

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock. Add the mint at the end so it stays fresh and green. If the peas look too loose after mashing, simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce; if too thick, loosen with a splash of hot stock. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days and can be reheated gently.