British mushy peas are a popular side dish in the United Kingdom, particularly in the North of England. They are made from marrowfat peas, which are soaked overnight in water and then boiled with a little bicarbonate of soda until they become soft and mushy. The peas are then seasoned with salt and pepper and a little bit of butter.
Mushy peas are typically served with fish and chips, but they can also be enjoyed with other dishes such as meat pies or sausages. Some people even like to use them as a filling for sandwiches.
Mushy peas are a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins, and they are low in fat. They are also easy to prepare and can be made in advance and reheated when needed.
However, there are several brands of tinned mushy peas that are popular in the UK and have good reviews:
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Batchelors Mushy Peas: This brand is widely available in supermarkets and is known for producing high-quality mushy peas. They are made from 100% marrowfat peas and are low in fat and sugar.
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Green Giant Mushy Peas: This brand uses only the best quality marrowfat peas and adds a touch of mint for extra flavor. They are also low in fat and are a good source of fiber and protein.
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Napolina Mushy Peas: This brand uses only the finest quality peas and is known for producing mushy peas with a smooth and creamy texture. They are also low in fat and are a good source of fiber.
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Tesco Everyday Value Mushy Peas: This is a budget brand that is very affordable and offers good quality mushy peas. They are made from marrowfat peas and have a smooth and creamy texture.
It's worth noting that tinned mushy peas may not have the same texture and flavor as freshly made ones. However, they are a convenient and tasty option when you don't have time to make mushy peas from scratch.
British mushy peas are popular for several reasons:
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They are a traditional accompaniment to fish and chips, which is a beloved British dish. Many people grew up eating mushy peas with their fish and chips and have a nostalgic attachment to them.
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They are delicious! When cooked properly, mushy peas are creamy, savory, and full of flavor. They have a slightly sweet taste and a satisfying texture that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
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They are nutritious. Mushy peas are made from dried marrowfat peas, which are a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthier alternative to other side dishes.
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They are easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some time on the stove, you can make a big batch of mushy peas to serve alongside your favorite dishes.
Overall, mushy peas are a comforting and tasty side dish that have been enjoyed in the UK for generations.
bristol
United Kingdom
a simple recipe for making British mushy peas:
Ingredients:
- 500g dried marrowfat peas
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 50g butter
Instructions:
- Rinse the dried peas in cold water and place them in a large bowl. Cover them with water and leave to soak overnight.
- Drain the peas and rinse them again with cold water. Place them in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover them by about 2 inches.
- Add the bicarbonate of soda to the saucepan and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the peas for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until they are very soft and mushy. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during cooking.
- Drain the peas and return them to the saucepan. Add the butter and mash the peas with a potato masher until they are smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the peas are too thick, you can add a little bit of hot water to thin them out.
Your mushy peas are now ready to serve as a delicious and classic British side dish!