Neither peas nor potatoes are indigenous to North America. Peas were introduced in the seventeenth century and flourished over time. While sweet potatoes were popular with the settlers, white potatoes took getting used to; they had to cross the Atlantic twice (from South America to Europe, then from Ireland to the colonies) before they were widely grown.
Recipe information
Yield
Serves 8
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Cook potatoes in pot of boiling salted water until just tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and cool. Cut potatoes in half.
Step 2
Melt butter in heavy large saucepan over low heat. Add flour; whisk until mixture bubbles and thickens (do not brown), about 3 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to simmer, whisking often (sauce will be thick). Simmer until very thick, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Mix in cream and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix in potatoes. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover; chill. Bring to simmer before continuing, stirring often.) Mix peas and onions into sauce. Cook over medium-low heat until vegetables are heated through, stirring often, about 8 minutes.
