Pea stew with tomatoes and dill

Pea dish with tomatoes and dill: A simple, tasty, and colorful recipe

The pea dish with tomatoes and dill is a preparation that can remind us of childhood flavors, but at the same time, it can be a discovery for those who have not had the chance to try it until now. This recipe is simple, quick, and, most importantly, healthy. Packed with nutrients and vitamins, peas and tomatoes are the ideal ingredients for a nourishing meal. I will guide you step by step in preparing this dish, so you achieve a perfect result every time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 kg peas (preferably frozen)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons pepper paste
- 3 large tomatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste

Short history of the recipe

The pea dish is a traditional preparation, commonly found in different cultures. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this recipe has managed to stay on people’s tables over time, thanks to its ease of preparation and comforting taste. Peas, rich in plant proteins and vitamins, have been appreciated since ancient times for their nutritional contribution.

Preparing the recipe

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by finely chopping the onions. They will add a flavorful base to the dish. In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Useful tips: A trick to intensify the flavor of the onion is to add a pinch of salt while sautéing, which helps extract the natural juices.

Step 2: Adding the bell pepper

When the onion is ready, chop the green bell pepper and 1/2 red bell pepper into small cubes. Add them to the skillet and let them sauté together with the onion for another 3-4 minutes. This vegetable combination will provide a rich flavor to the dish.

Personal note: If you want to add a carrot, it will make the dish sweeter. I recommend cutting it into small cubes and adding it along with the bell pepper, but be aware that the sweetness of the carrot will slightly change the flavor profile of the dish.

Step 3: Adding the pepper paste

After the vegetables have sautéed, add 2 tablespoons of pepper paste. This will provide an intense flavor and vibrant color to the dish. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: The peas and water

Now it's time to add the frozen peas directly into the skillet. Mix well to incorporate them into the vegetable mixture. Then pour in 2 cups of water and put a lid on the skillet. Let it simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.

Tips for a thicker sauce: If you want a dish with a creamier sauce, crush a few peas against the side of the pot and mix them into the sauce. This will thicken the dish and give it a more pleasant texture.

Step 5: Preparing the tomato juice

In the meantime, prepare the tomato juice. To peel the tomatoes more easily, make a small cross incision at the top of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. After this step, you will see how easily they peel. Using an immersion blender or a food processor, turn the peeled tomatoes into a fine paste.

Step 6: Finishing the dish

After the 30 minutes of simmering, add the tomato juice to the pot and mix well. Continue cooking the dish for another 10-15 minutes until the water evaporates and the sauce becomes tasty and thick.

Step 7: Adding the dill

Once the peas are cooked, taste the dish and adjust the salt to your liking. Then add the finely chopped fresh dill. The dill will add a fresh aroma and an unmistakable taste.

Serving suggestion: I recommend serving the pea dish with a salad of fresh tomatoes, drizzled with a little olive oil and vinegar. This will perfectly complement the dish and bring an extra freshness.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh peas?
Absolutely! If you have access to fresh peas, they are ideal. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so check the texture.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add carrots, zucchini, or even diced potatoes to make the dish heartier.

3. Is dill essential?
Although dill adds a specific flavor, you can omit it if you don’t like it or if you don’t have it on hand.

4. How can I store leftovers?
The pea dish keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutritional benefits

Peas are an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and manganese. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and dill brings a wealth of beneficial vitamins and minerals for health.

In conclusion, the pea dish with tomatoes and dill is not only a tasty preparation but also a healthy choice for any meal. With a little patience and love, you will manage to transform simple ingredients into something truly special. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg peas (I used frozen) 2 onions 1 green bell pepper 1/2 red bell pepper 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons pepper paste 3 tomatoes 1 bunch of dill salt