This Mary Berry French Peas recipe is a buttery and fresh side dish, which uses Little Gem lettuce and frozen peas. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 30 minutes.
Mary Berry French Peas Ingredients
- 60g (2¼oz) butter, at room temperature
- 2 Little Gem lettuces, leaves separated
- 450g (1lb) frozen peas
- 4 small shallots, quartered
- 10 mint leaves
- 75ml (2½fl oz) white wine
How To Make Mary Berry French Peas
- Line The Pan With Lettuce: Melt half the butter in a wide saucepan and line the base with outer lettuce leaves.
- Layer The Vegetables: Add peas and quartered shallots, then dot cubed butter on top. Season with salt and pepper, add mint, and pour in white wine.
- Cover With Lettuce And Simmer: Lay the remaining lettuce leaves over the peas. Cover and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes.
- Stir And Serve: Remove the lid, stir gently, and adjust seasoning. Serve warm in a dish.
Recipe Tips
- Can I use fresh peas? Yes, just reduce the simmering time slightly.
- What wine should I use? A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works best.
- Is this dish vegetarian? Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian.
- What lettuce works best? Little Gem is ideal for its structure, but Boston or butterhead lettuce can work too.
- Can I add bacon? Yes, crispy bacon adds extra flavor and texture.
What To Serve With French Peas
This classic side pairs well with:
- Pan-fried mackerel
- Grilled sausages
- Roast chicken
- Pork chops
- Lemon herb fish fillets
How To Store French Peas
Refrigerate: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 1 day.
Reheat: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
Do Not Freeze: This dish is not suitable for freezing.
French Peas Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 170 kcal per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
What makes French peas different?
The addition of lettuce, mint, and wine gives them a delicate, aromatic flavor.
Can I skip the wine?
Yes, substitute with vegetable stock or water for a non-alcoholic version.
Do I need to defrost the peas first?
No, frozen peas can go straight into the pan.
Can I make this ahead?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead.
Mary Berry French Peas
Description
A tender and buttery dish of peas simmered with shallots, lettuce, mint, and white wine—fresh, fragrant, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt half the butter and line pan with outer lettuce leaves.
- Add peas and shallots, top with cubed butter, mint, and wine.
- Cover with remaining lettuce, simmer for 20–25 mins.
- Stir, season, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh peas if desired
- Crisped bacon makes a great add-on
- Best enjoyed freshly made
- Do not freeze