Pea stew with ham hocks
Pea stew with drumsticks - A comforting and flavorful recipe
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Who doesn't love a simple yet delicious dish that brings back memories of family meals? Pea stew with drumsticks is a perfect example of comfort food, packed with nutrients and rich flavors. This recipe stands out for its simplicity of ingredients, as well as its unmistakable taste, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or relaxing dinners.
A brief story about pea stew
Pea stew is a recipe that has passed through generations, loved for its versatility. Peas, a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures, have been cultivated and consumed for hundreds of years, appreciated not only for their sweet flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. This recipe combines peas with drumsticks, offering a balanced dish that merges proteins with fibers and vitamins.
Necessary ingredients
- 400 g green peas (frozen)
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a refined taste)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance acidity)
- Paprika (sweet or hot, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step by step - Your guide to perfect pea stew
1. Preparing the drumsticks: Start by cleaning and washing the chicken drumsticks. Make sure to dry them well with a paper towel to remove excess water. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika on all sides of the drumsticks, ensuring they are evenly coated. These spices will add a delicious flavor to the meat.
2. Frying the drumsticks: In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the drumsticks and fry them for 3-4 minutes until they brown slightly and change color. Turn them on all sides to achieve even frying. The trick here is not to overcrowd the pot to allow for even frying.
3. Preparing the onion: Meanwhile, clean and finely chop the onion. After the drumsticks have browned, add the onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes transparent and starts to release its aroma.
4. Adding the peas: Once the onion is sautéed, add a little water (about 100 ml) and bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the frozen peas. This will add a pleasant texture to the dish.
5. Boiling the stew: Add more water (about 300 ml) and let everything boil for 20-25 minutes. Check from time to time to ensure that there is enough liquid and that the dish does not stick to the pot.
6. Adding the tomato paste: After the meat and peas are cooked, add the tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. This will add a rich flavor and a hint of sweetness that will balance the dish. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Finalizing the dish: Finally, finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the pot. Mix well and let it simmer for a few more minutes so that the flavors combine.
Serving suggestions
Serve the pea stew with drumsticks hot, alongside a portion of polenta or fresh bread. A simple green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers will perfectly complement the meal, bringing a fresh and crunchy contrast.
Variations of the recipe
This recipe is very versatile. You can add diced carrots or potatoes for an even heartier dish. You can also replace the chicken drumsticks with turkey meat or even a vegetarian option using tofu or mushrooms.
Nutritional benefits
Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins (especially vitamins K and C). Additionally, chicken drumsticks provide lean protein, essential for a healthy lifestyle. This dish is an excellent option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use fresh peas?
Yes, fresh peas are an excellent choice, but make sure to boil them for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.
2. What can I do with leftovers?
If you have leftovers, this dish is delicious the next day! You can easily reheat it in a skillet or in the oven.
3. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet?
Replace the chicken drumsticks with tofu or seitan, and keep the rest of the ingredients.
4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A refreshing lemonade or a dry white wine pairs excellently with the flavors of the pea stew.
I encourage you to try this easy-to-make recipe and enjoy a dish full of taste and history. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 400g green peas (frozen) 4 chicken drumsticks 1 onion oil 3 tablespoons tomato paste 1 bunch of dill 1 teaspoon sugar paprika salt pepper
