Garlic Breaded Mushy Peas: A Crispy Twist on a Classic
Mushy peas are a quintessential British side dish often paired with fish and chips, pies, or even sausages. This humble dish, typically made from marrowfat peas, is elevated to a whole new level with a crispy garlic breading, creating a unique texture and flavour that will surprise and delight your palate.
Ingredients
- 450g (2 cups) of frozen or tinned marrowfat peas
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 75g (1 cup) of breadcrumbs
- 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the mushy peas: If using frozen peas, cook them according to package instructions. If using tinned peas, drain and rinse them. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, then add the peas and cook until they're soft and easily mashable. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mash the peas: Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the peas until they reach your desired consistency. Some prefer them completely smooth, while others like a chunkier texture.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the olive oil or melted butter until the crumbs are coated.
- Form and coat the mushy peas: Take a small scoop of the mashed peas and form them into balls or patties. Coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook in the air fryer: Arrange the breaded mushy peas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through the cooking time.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish or snack.
Tips for Success
- Try different cheeses: While Parmesan is recommended for its sharpness, feel free to experiment with other types such as Cheddar or Pecorino Romano.
- Add a zesty kick: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest can add a refreshing acidity that complements the garlic and cheese.
- Perfect consistency: If your mashed peas are too wet, consider adding more breadcrumbs to the mixture to help absorb excess moisture.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This garlic breaded mushy peas recipe is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. By using an air fryer, you reduce the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying, while still achieving that sought-after crunch. The combination of garlic, cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs complements the natural sweetness of the peas, making for a side dish that's both comforting and exciting.