Pea dish with and without meat

Pea Dish with and without Meat

Are you dreaming of a meal that combines the fresh taste of vegetables with the savory aroma of meat, while also providing a perfect option for fasting days? Then this recipe for pea dish with and without meat is exactly what you need! It’s a versatile recipe that brings together simplicity and deliciousness, making it perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s a healthy choice, packed with vitamins and minerals that will add a touch of freshness to your plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg Bonduelle peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 1-2 stalks of leek
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning (or preferred spices)
- A pinch of freshly ground pepper

Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion, leek, and bell pepper. These vegetables will add a rich flavor to your dish. If you’re using fresh peas, make sure to shell them before you start cooking.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the chopped onion, leek, and bell pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to prevent excessive frying. Let the vegetables sweat over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Cook the chicken breast: Meanwhile, in another skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and place the chicken breast cut into pieces. Pour in a glass of water and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until tender. This step is essential for achieving juicy meat.

4. Boil the peas: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the peas. Boil for 5-10 minutes, then remove them with a slotted spoon. This will keep the peas firm and vibrant.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the drained peas to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, along with 2 ladles of water. Let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Then add the tomato paste, vegetable seasoning, and pepper. Finally, sprinkle the chopped dill for a fresh aroma.

6. Separate the servings: Before adding the chicken breast, it’s time to set aside a portion of the peas for those who are fasting. This way, you’ll have a delicious pea dish for everyone!

7. Add the meat: Add the cooked chicken breast to the remaining peas in the skillet and mix well. Let everything cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

Serving

Serve this pea dish with and without meat alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta, which will perfectly complement the meal. You can also add a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers for an even more colorful and healthy meal.

Practical Tips

- Vegan option: If you want to turn this recipe into a completely vegetarian one, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu or mushrooms, which will add a similar texture.
- Spices: Instead of vegetable seasoning, you can use your preferred spice blends to customize the flavors of your dish.
- Cooling and storage: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor actually improves the next day when the ingredients have melded together.

Nutritional Benefits

Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (such as vitamins C, K, and B), and minerals. Additionally, chicken breast is a lean protein that contributes to a balanced diet. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it perfect for a family meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned peas? Yes, you can use canned peas, but it’s recommended to add them at the end of cooking to prevent them from falling apart.
- Can this dish be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the dish, but it’s best to do so without the chicken breast to maintain the optimal texture of the peas.
- What other dishes can it be paired with? This dish pairs perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes, and for a more complex meal, add a light dessert, such as a fruit sorbet.

A Personal Note

This recipe reminds me of the days spent with my grandmother, who always used fresh ingredients from her garden. I encourage you to enjoy every step of preparing this dish and to personalize it as you like. Cooking is not just a necessity, but also an art form and a way to bring happiness around the table!

Enjoy making this pea dish, and the result will surely please everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences!

 Ingredients: 1 kg peas Bonduel, 1 chicken breast, 3-4 tablespoons oil, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1-2 stalks of leek, 3 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 bunch of dill, 1 tablespoon vegeta, a little pepper

 Tags:  pea chicken breast