by 
Pea Puree is so much more than a first food for babies. With its vibrant colour, mild flavor and the fresh hint of mint, it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted veggies to lamb or fish.
Purees are often seen as a "first food", something we move on from as babies grow and begin exploring different textures.
However they are an easy way to add vegetables, flavor adn color to a meal, and are commonly used in dishes far beyond baby food.
This Mint Pea Puree is a perfect example. Its simple, fresh and great for babies or as a side dish.
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Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Versatile: Great as a first puree for babies or served alongside fish, seafood or chicken. Also works as a dip.
- Fresh Flavor: Mild, naturally sweet with a hint of mint and a vibrant green color.
- Quick: Whip up the puree in under ten minutes.
- Year Round: Made with frozen peas, so you can enjoy it anytime.
- Freezable: Have frozen portions available at any time.
Ingredient Information
- Peas: Frozen peas are used in this recipe, they are easy to use and available all year round. If you prefer, you can use fresh peas but give yourself a little more time for shelling.
- Mint: Pea and mint is a classic combination but you can experiment with other herbs for a different flavour profile. Why not try parsley or tarragon.
- Lemon Juice: Helps to balance the flavour profile of the puree and help keep the lovely vibrant colour.
Step by Step Instructions (with Images)
- Cook Peas: Boil or steam for 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain, then add to a blender or food processor with the mint.
- Blend & Finish: Blend until smooth. Add the lemon juice and adjust the consistency with a little water if needed. Season to taste, avoiding salt if serving babies.
Top Tips
- Keep It Bright Green: Cook the peas just until tender and avoid overcooking. For an extra vibrant color, you can briefly rinse under cold water or use an ice bath.
- Adjust Texture: Add a little water (or baby milk) to reach your desired consistency. For an extra smooth puree, blend for longer or pass through a sieve.
- Boost the Flavor (optional): For a richer taste, saute a little finely chopped onion and garlic in butter or olive oil before adding the peas, and / or cook the peas in low -sodium stock or broth instead of water.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days, the puree may lose a little of its vibrancy.
- Freeze: Spoon the puree into flexible ice-cube trays and freeze until solid. (Freezing in ice cube trays allows you to defrost small amounts). Once they're fully frozen, quickly pop them all out and place the frozen cubes into a freezer bag or container and return to the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator.
Recipe FAQs
Pea puree can be offered once your baby is developmentally ready to start solids, which is typically around 6 months of age.
You can see from my pictures that the puree has a little texture. If you are wanting a silky smooth finish (usually wanted for fancy plating) then tip the puree into a fine sieve and use the back of a spoon to push it through. Some high spec blenders will give a smooth puree without having to do this step.
More Purees to Try...
Full Recipe
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Pea Puree
Ingredients
- 250g (1 & ¾ cups) frozen peas
- 5 mint leaves
- 4 tablespoon water (add extra if needed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (more if needed)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to the boil, add the frozen peas and bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce to medium heat. Simmer for 2-3 mins. (Alternatively, place peas in a steamer basket, and place over the pan of boiling water. Cover and steam for 2-4 minutes.)
- Drain and add peas to a blender or food processor along with the water and mint. Blitz until smooth.
- Add the lemon juice and stir. Taste and season as required (do not season if serving a baby)
Kirsty
I laughed when you said “not just for babies” but I was pleasantly surprised when I tasted it!
Amy
Glad you gave it a try!