Creamy Peas and Mushrooms

Serves

The sweetness of fresh spring peas and the earthy richness of mushrooms make a memorable duet. Braised in wine and cream, this is a standout vegetable side dish, perfect with lamb or roast chicken.

Ingredients

2 slices thick cut bacon (cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices)
8 ounces button mushrooms (ends trimmed and sliced in half or quarters, depending on size)
2 large shallots (thinly sliced)
4 cups fresh English peas (shelled)
1/3 cup heavy (whipping) cream
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon or thyme
  Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)

Directions

Place the bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon with a slotted spatula to several thicknesses of paper towels to drain. Reserve the fat in the pan.


Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the mushrooms. Cook for 3 minutes, then stir and add the shallots to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms and shallots have softened, about 3 minutes.


Add the wine and reserved bacon pieces to the pan and cook until most of the wine has evaporated, about 4 minutes. Add the peas, cream, and tarragon, and cook just until the peas are tender, 5 to 10 minutes, depending on their size and freshness. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.