Peas with fresh pork belly

Pea stew with fresh pork belly

Who doesn't love a simple yet flavorful dish? This recipe for pea stew with fresh pork belly is perfect for those days when you want to enjoy a comforting meal that is easy to make but has a unique taste. Suitable for both lunch and dinner, this recipe will remind you of traditional family meals.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 600 g fresh pork belly
- 800 g peas (can be fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 300 ml tomato juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Spices: salt, pepper, thyme (to taste)
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Slice the onion into thin rings and the carrot into fine slices. These will add natural sweetness and a pleasant texture to your dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and carrot and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Add a splash of water to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the pan and to keep them moist.

3. Seasoning: While the vegetables are sautéing, add salt, pepper, and thyme. These spices will enhance the flavor of the dish. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Preparing the pork belly: Cut the pork belly into thin strips and place it in a preheated grill pan. Sear the pork belly over high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until it is browned and crispy. The secret here is not to overcrowd the pan so that the pork belly browns evenly.

5. Combining the flavors: Place the fried pork belly over the onion and carrot mixture and let it cook together for 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

6. Adding the peas: Add the peas to the pan, followed by the tomato juice. Stir well and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until the peas are cooked but still retain their texture. If using frozen peas, the cooking time can be reduced by a few minutes.

7. Finalizing the dish: Once the peas are ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh dill and parsley. These herbs will add a fresh and vibrant note to your dish.

Serving suggestions

This pea stew with fresh pork belly is served hot, alongside a slice of homemade bread or a steaming polenta. A bottle of dry white wine or a shot of traditional spirit can perfectly complement the meal, providing a pleasant contrast to the dish's flavors.

Nutritional information

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Pork belly is a good source of protein and healthy fats, while peas are packed with fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (iron, magnesium). A serving of this stew offers about 450 calories, making it a hearty and filling meal.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as diced potatoes or bell peppers. You can also substitute the pork belly with chicken or turkey for a leaner option. For vegans, this dish can be adapted by omitting the meat and adding tofu or other sources of plant protein.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned peas?
Yes, you can use canned peas, but add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
You can add a bay leaf or a few peppercorns during cooking for a more complex flavor.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! The stew keeps well in the fridge and becomes even tastier the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

4. What side dish pairs best?
A simple green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers will perfectly complement the dish, providing a refreshing note.

A personal note

This recipe reminds me of family dinners from my childhood when my grandmother prepared simple yet love-filled dishes. The aroma of the fried pork belly and sautéed vegetables brought us all together around the table, offering a sense of warmth and belonging. I hope you feel the same joy in the kitchen and share this dish with your loved ones.

So, don't wait any longer! Dive into the cooking adventure and enjoy this pea stew with fresh pork belly, full of flavors and beautiful memories!