lady cream peas recipe

lady cream peas recipe

The Best lady cream peas recipe

I’ve been making lady cream peas for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. This dish is a staple in my household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too.

The origin of lady cream peas is unclear, but I believe it’s an American adaptation of traditional British recipes. The creamy texture and sweet flavor of the peas make it a perfect side dish for any occasion.

My family loves it when I serve it with roasted chicken or pork, and the kids always ask for seconds. In fact, my youngest son has even started calling it ‘pea magic’ because he can’t get enough of it.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make lady cream peas from scratch. All you need is some frozen peas, butter, cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Lady Cream Peas

Lady Cream Peas

4.8 from 1946 votes

Lady cream peas are small, tender field peas with a creamy texture and mild flavor. This Southern-style recipe simmers them with smoked turkey and aromatics for a hearty, comforting side dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Peas

1 pound dried lady cream peas, rinsed and sorted
6 cups water
1 smoked turkey drumstick or wing (about 8 ounces)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving

Cooked white rice
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed lady cream peas in a large pot and add 6 cups of water.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and add the smoked turkey, onion, garlic, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
3Simmer uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
4Remove the smoked turkey from the pot and let it cool slightly.
5Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
6Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine.
7Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8Remove the bay leaf.
9Serve the lady cream peas over cooked rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

If using fresh or frozen lady cream peas, reduce cooking time to about 30-40 minutes. For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and use vegetable broth with a pinch of liquid smoke.

Watch Video Of How Lady Cream Peas Works

Lady cream peas are a staple in our household and always a good idea for any occasion. Whether we’re having a family gathering or just need a quick side dish, this recipe never fails to impress.

One of my favorite things about lady cream peas is how easy they are to reheat – simply microwave or oven-heat until warm and creamy again! We love serving them alongside roasted meats or as a comforting side dish on their own.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lady Cream Peas

Q: What is the best type of frozen peas to use for lady cream peas?

The best type of frozen peas to use is the ones that are specifically labeled as ‘garden peas’ or ‘petit pois’. These types of peas are smaller and have a sweeter flavor than other types of frozen peas.

Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh peas if they’re available in season. However, keep in mind that fresh peas can be more expensive and may not have the same shelf life as frozen peas.

Q: How do I prevent the cream from curdling when making lady cream peas?

To prevent the cream from curdling, make sure to heat it slowly over low heat while whisking constantly. You can also add a little bit of cornstarch or flour to the cream before heating it up to help thicken it.

Q: Can I make lady cream peas ahead of time?

Q: How long does lady cream peas keep in the fridge?

Lady cream peas will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

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