Modern Peas Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 quart Dried Peas (Use split peas for a smoother texture.)
• 6 cups Water (For soaking and boiling.)
• 2 ounces Butter (About 4 tablespoons)
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour (For dusting the cloth)
• 1 dessertspoon Dried Mint (Optional, for added flavor)
• 0.5 cup Cooked Potatoes (Mashed, optional, for added texture and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Savory Herbs (Chopped fresh herbs like thyme or sage, optional)

Instructions

1. 1Soak the dried peas in water overnight (at least 8 hours). In the morning, drain the peas and discard any that are floating.
2. 2Place the drained peas in a clean pudding cloth or cheesecloth. Tie the cloth securely, leaving plenty of room for the peas to expand.
3. 3Place the pudding cloth with the peas in a large pot of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the peas are very tender.
4. 4Remove the pudding cloth from the pot and let it cool slightly. Untie the cloth and rub the peas through a colander or wire sieve into a bowl.
5. 5Mix in the butter, salt, pepper, dried mint (if using), and cooked potatoes (if using) into the pureed peas. Flour the pudding cloth lightly and tie the peas back up inside. Boil in fresh water for another hour.
6. 6Remove the pudding cloth from the pot. Untie the cloth and turn the peas pudding out onto a serving dish. Serve hot.