Peas with shrimp and squid
Pea Stew with Shrimp and Squid - An Unconventional Delight
Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I present to you an enticing recipe for pea stew with shrimp and squid, a combination that blends the freshness of ingredients with the flavors of the sea. This recipe is not only delicious but also a true visual feast, perfect for a special dinner or a gathering with friends. I will guide you step by step through each stage, providing useful tips and information about the ingredients to ensure you achieve a perfect result.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- Peas: 500 g (fresh or frozen)
- Potatoes: 2 medium
- Red bell pepper: 1
- Small onion: 1
- Diced tomatoes in tomato juice: 400 g (about 1/2 can)
- Tomato paste: 3 tablespoons (or more, to taste)
- Dry white wine: 180 ml (about 3/4 cup)
- Squid: 400 g (cleaned, fresh or frozen)
- Shrimp: 6 (medium-sized, unpeeled but deveined)
- Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
- Spices: oregano, basil, salt, pepper, paprika
A Brief History of the Recipe
Pea stew is a traditional dish appreciated in many cultures. It is often made with seasonal ingredients and can vary significantly from one region to another. The addition of seafood, such as squid and shrimp, transforms this simple recipe into a culinary masterpiece. This combination not only brings a unique flavor but also an interesting texture that will delight your taste buds.
Step by Step:
1. Preparing the Squid
If you chose frozen squid, make sure to thaw them about 30 minutes before you start cooking. Change the water 2-3 times to speed up the process. If you opted for fresh squid, cleaning them may seem complicated, but with a little patience, you will succeed:
- Cleaning: Remove the outer membrane from the squid, including the tentacles. Then, pull the head (tentacles) out, being careful to remove the intestines.
- Cleaning the tube: Remove the transparent bone and rinse the inside of the tube under running water. Ensure all the gel is removed.
- Removing the cartilage: Between the tentacles, you will find a cartilage that needs to be removed.
2. Preparing the Shrimp
If you have shell-on shrimp, you can leave them as is, but for a finer texture, you can peel them. Choose medium-sized shrimp, as very small ones will shrink during cooking.
3. Vegetable Sofritto
In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the diced tomatoes in tomato juice and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Adding the Seafood
Once the vegetables have softened, add the cleaned squid and shrimp. Deglaze with the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates. This is the perfect time to add your favorite spices (oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and paprika) to enhance the aroma.
5. Cooking the Peas and Potatoes
Add the peas, diced potatoes, and tomato paste. Pour in a cup of water (about 250 ml) to ensure there is enough liquid for the ingredients to cook. Let it simmer on low heat, covered, for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Finishing the Dish
Check the consistency of the sauce and adjust it to your liking. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. Finally, add freshly chopped parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pea stew with shrimp and squid alongside a slice of fresh bread or boiled rice. A crisp green salad will perfectly complement this flavorful dish. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a seafood cocktail will make this meal a memorable experience.
Nutritional Benefits
This stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, while shrimp and squid provide high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, that’s perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw them properly as described earlier.
2. Can I substitute peas with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use green beans or zucchini, but the cooking time will vary.
3. Is this recipe suitable for diets?
It’s a healthy recipe, low in calories, thanks to the vegetables and seafood.
4. How can I customize the recipe?
You can add other seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs, such as tarragon or thyme.
Possible Variations
- Stew with rice: You can add rice during cooking to create a heartier dish.
- Spicy stew: Add chili peppers for a spicier flavor.
- Vegetarian: Replace the seafood with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
I hope this recipe for pea stew with shrimp and squid becomes a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let yourself be carried away by the waves of flavors and textures! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1/2 kg peas, 2 medium potatoes, 1 red bell pepper, 1 small onion, 1/2 can diced tomatoes in tomato juice, 3 tablespoons broth (or as much tomato as you want in the dish), 3/4 cup dry white wine, 400g squid, 6 large shrimp, unpeeled but without heads, spices: oregano, basil, salt, pepper, paprika, 4 tablespoons olive oil
