Ingredients:
For the Creamed Peas:*
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small shallot or ¼ cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk or 2% milk
1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional but recommended)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For Serving:*
2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or white)
Butter, for spreading on toast (optional)
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or mint, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Toast*
Toast the bread slices to your desired level of doneness. If desired, spread a thin layer of butter on the warm toast. Set aside on serving plates.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics*
In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot (or onion) and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux*
Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and garlic. Stir constantly and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Whisk in the Milk*
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Add the Peas and Season*
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve*
Spoon the creamy peas generously over the prepared toast. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Frozen Peas are Perfect: Frozen peas are sweeter and more consistent than many fresh peas. There’s no need to thaw them first.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A small squeeze of lemon juice brightens the entire dish and balances the richness of the cream sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more milk. If too thin, let it simmer an extra minute or two.
- Customize Your Toast: Try it on a thick slice of crusty sourdough, a buttery brioche, or even a toasted English muffin.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, top with a poached egg, crispy bacon, or flaked smoked salmon.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover creamed peas (without the toast) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Not for Freezing: The cream sauce may separate and become grainy upon thawing.
- Make-Ahead: The creamed peas are best made fresh, but you can prepare the sauce (through Step 4) in advance and stir in the peas and lemon juice just before serving.
Creamed Peas on Toast is a simple, timeless dish that delivers immense comfort and satisfaction. With its creamy sauce, sweet peas, and perfect toasted bread, it’s a meal that warms both body and soul.
