Macho Peas from Nando's feature tender green peas blended with spicy peri-peri sauce, garlic, and herbs, served as a vibrant and flavorful side dish with a smooth, creamy texture and a hint of heat.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Colander or sieve
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) frozen green peas
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon peri-peri sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Using frozen green peas ensures a consistently tender texture and vibrant color, which is essential for replicating the smooth creaminess of Macho Peas from Nando's. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint bring brightness and herbal notes that balance the heat from peri-peri sauce. Garlic should be finely minced or blended to fully integrate its pungent flavor without overpowering the dish. Adjust salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences to enhance the overall flavor harmony. Your homemade version of Macho Peas from Nando's will capture the unique blend of spicy, creamy, and herbaceous elements characteristic of the original side dish.
Instructions
- Boil the peas in a saucepan until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
- Drain peas using a colander or sieve.
- Roughly chop garlic, parsley, and mint on a chopping board.
- Add peas, garlic, parsley, mint, peri-peri sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice to blender or food processor.
- Pulse blend until mixture is creamy but slightly chunky.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl and fold with a wooden spoon or spatula if needed.
- Spoon macho peas into a serving bowl.
- Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Macho Peas from Nando's copycat menu combine tender green peas with zesty peri-peri sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs to create a creamy, spicy side dish. If fresh parsley or mint leaves are unavailable, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity to prevent overpowering the flavor. For a milder version, adjust the peri-peri sauce amount according to your taste or replace it with a milder chili paste. Using frozen peas requires minimal cooking time; overcooking can lead to mushy texture, so rinse and drain immediately after boiling. Your blender or food processor should be pulsed gently to maintain a slightly chunky consistency rather than a fully smooth puree.
Tips
Your frozen peas should be boiled just until tender to avoid a mushy texture, preserving their fresh flavor and vibrant color. When pulsing the mixture in the blender, aim for a creamy yet slightly chunky consistency to maintain the dish's unique texture. Use fresh herbs like parsley and mint in the correct amounts to enhance the flavor without overpowering the peri-peri heat. Season carefully with salt and black pepper at the end, tasting as you go to balance the flavors perfectly.
Nutritions
Macho Peas from Nando's provide a nutrient-rich side dish packed with protein and dietary fiber from green peas, supporting digestive health and sustained energy. The olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while garlic contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Peri-peri sauce enhances flavor with capsaicin, known for boosting metabolism and promoting circulation. Your meal benefits from fresh herbs like parsley and mint, which add vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and skin health.
Storage
Store leftover Macho Peas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Ensure the peas have cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation buildup. When ready to serve, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat or enjoy them chilled as a refreshing side.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap fresh mint with cilantro or basil for a different herbal aroma in your Macho Peas. Use roasted garlic instead of raw to introduce a milder, sweeter flavor while preserving the sauce's spiciness. Adjust the peri-peri sauce amount based on your spice tolerance to control the heat level precisely. For a smoother texture, blend longer or add a splash of vegetable stock to loosen the mix before serving.
Allergies
Macho Peas from Nando's contain ingredients such as garlic, peri-peri sauce, and herbs, which may trigger allergies or sensitivities in some individuals. Peri-peri sauce often includes chili peppers, which can cause reactions ranging from mild irritation to more severe allergic responses. You should carefully check the ingredient specifics and consult with a healthcare provider if you have known allergies to spices or herbs before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Macho Peas from Nando's restaurant are favored for their vibrant blend of green peas, mint, and spices, creating a fresh and zesty flavor profile that complements any meal. The dish offers a unique twist on traditional side options, balancing creaminess with a subtle kick of heat, appealing to those seeking a flavorful yet healthy choice. Your attempt to make a copycat Macho Peas recipe allows you to enjoy this distinct taste at home, customizing the spice levels and freshness to suit your preferences. Replicating this menu item can elevate your culinary skills while delivering a nutritious, crowd-pleasing side dish.