Peas

Introduction:

Peas are a beloved and versatile vegetable that have been a part of human diets for centuries. These small, spherical green gems are known for their sweet, slightly earthy flavor and vibrant color. One popular way to enjoy peas is in a dish like “Peas with Ham,” where the natural sweetness of peas is complemented by the savory notes of ham and a flavorful sauce. This dish has a history steeped in tradition and has been a cherished part of many cuisines.

Peas have a long history of cultivation, dating back to at least 7,000 years ago in the region that is now known as Turkey. They spread across Europe and Asia and eventually made their way to the Americas through European colonization. Peas have been an important crop due to their nutritional value and ease of cultivation.

Dishes like Peas with Ham likely evolved over time as a way to make the most of both peas and ham, which were readily available ingredients in many households. Combining the sweetness of peas with the savory and slightly salty flavor of ham creates a harmonious and satisfying dish. Variations of this recipe can be found in various culinary traditions, from French petits pois aux lardons to Southern American dishes like Hoppin’ John.

Now, let’s explore how to make this classic Peas with Ham dish:

INGREDIENTS

• 1 quart cooked green peas
• 2 ounces of lean cooked ham, cut into dice
• 2 tablespoons Crisco (a vegetable shortening)
• 2 tablespoons good stock
• 1 teaspoon flour
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• A pinch of sugar
• Grated nutmeg
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start by cooking the green peas. You can do this by boiling them until they are tender, then draining and setting them aside. You can also use frozen peas, which can be cooked according to the package instructions.
2. In a saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of Crisco over medium heat.
3. Add the finely chopped half of a small onion to the melted Crisco and sauté until the onion is lightly browned. This will impart a lovely flavor to the dish.
4. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flour over the onions and stir it in. Cook for a minute or two, stirring continuously, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Add the diced ham to the skillet with the onions and roux. Stir and cook for a minute or two to heat the ham.
6. Carefully add the cooked green peas to the skillet, followed by 2 tablespoons of good stock. This stock adds depth of flavor to the dish.
7. Season the mixture with a pinch of sugar, grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.
8. Allow the peas, ham, and sauce to simmer together for about ten minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to let the flavors meld.
9. Once the dish is heated through and the flavors have melded, remove it from the heat.
10. Serve your Peas with Ham hot as a flavorful and satisfying side dish.

Enjoy this classic combination of sweet green peas and savory ham, brought together by a flavorful sauce. It’s a dish that celebrates the history and versatility of peas in culinary traditions around the world.