Pea stew

Pea Dish: A Satisfying and Healthy Delicacy

In search of a dish that combines savory taste with nutritional benefits, the pea dish proves to be the perfect choice. This simple and quick recipe is ideal not only for fasting periods but also for days when you want to enjoy a light yet filling meal. The origins of this recipe are found in long-standing culinary traditions, being appreciated for its vibrant flavor and nutritional character.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
To achieve a delicious pea dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 kg peas (canned or fresh, cleaned)
- 50 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 2 small onions
- 1 large carrot
- 50 ml tomato juice
- 1 bunch of dill (can be fresh or frozen)
- Salt, pepper, and basil, to taste
- A pinch of baking soda

Preparing the Ingredients
Before starting the cooking process, it is essential to prepare all the ingredients. Wash the onion and carrot well, then:
- Onion: Chop it finely, so it sautés evenly and adds flavor.
- Carrot: The carrot slices should be thin rounds so that they soften quickly during cooking.

Step by Step: Cooking the Pea Dish

1. Heating the Oil: In a pot, pour the oil and heat it over medium heat. It is important for the oil to be hot enough to sauté the vegetables properly.

2. Sautéing the Onion and Carrot: Add the onion and carrot to the hot oil. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become slightly translucent. This will bring flavor and sweetness to the dish.

3. Steaming the Carrot: Add a cup of water (about 250 ml) and let the vegetables steam for 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure that the carrot becomes soft enough; otherwise, it may remain hard in contrast with the peas.

4. Adding the Peas: Once the carrot has softened, add the canned peas. If using fresh peas, make sure they are well cleaned and washed. Add water so that the peas are almost covered.

5. Preserving the Color: Add the baking soda. This will help the peas retain their vibrant green color, giving them an appetizing look.

6. Final Cooking: Let the peas simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. After this time, add the tomato juice and let everything come to a brief boil.

7. Seasoning: Finally, season with salt, pepper, and basil, according to your taste. Mix well to blend the flavors.

8. Final Touch: Once you remove the pot from the heat, add the chopped dill and mix again. The dill will add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

Serving and Suggestions
The pea dish is served warm, making it perfect both as a side for grilled meats or dishes, and as a main course. You can accompany it with a fresh salad or a slice of whole-grain bread for an added fiber boost. Additionally, for a more special meal, you can add a few slices of lemon for a refreshing taste.

Variations and Tips
- Variation with other vegetables: You can add potatoes or bell peppers for varied taste and texture.
- Fresh peas: If you choose fresh peas, make sure they are well cleaned and cooked for a shorter time than canned ones, so they don't become too soft.
- Recommended Drinks: A fresh lemonade or a cold mint tea pairs excellently with this dish.

Nutritional Benefits
Peas are an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. They contribute to maintaining digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels, making them perfect for a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas? Yes, frozen peas are an excellent choice. Make sure to thaw them before cooking for even cooking time.

How can I store the pea dish? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, or you can freeze portions to consume later.

Is this recipe vegan? Yes, the pea dish is completely vegan, making it ideal for those following a lifestyle free from animal products.

In conclusion, the pea dish is not only a simple recipe but also a true celebration of taste and health. I invite you to try it and discover how easy it is to create a delicious and nutritious dish, perfect for any occasion. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: For 4 servings: 1 kg of canned peas (I used Bonduelle) or fresh peas, cleaned half a cup of oil (50 ml) 2 small onions 1 large carrot half a cup of tomato juice (50 ml) 1 bunch of dill (I had frozen from this summer) salt, pepper, and basil to taste 1 pinch of baking soda

 Tags:  green peas pea recipe