Pea stew with beef

Pea and beef stew – a comforting and flavorful recipe

Who doesn't love a warm meal, full of nutrients and enticing aromas? This pea and beef stew recipe is not only delicious but also comforting, making it perfect for family meals or to impress your friends. Whether it's a chilly autumn day or a lazy weekend evening, this dish will bring a smile to your face. Let's get started!

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g peas (you can also use frozen peas, which cook quickly)
- 100 g carrot (about one medium carrot)
- 2 onions (medium size)
- 1 bell pepper (can be red or green, depending on your preference)
- 1 clove of garlic (for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 300 g beef (choose quality meat, such as chuck or brisket)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste (for an intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (for a refreshing finish)
- 2 tablespoons of olive or sunflower oil (for sautéing)

Recipe history:
Beef and pea stew has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a popular dish in many cultures. It is a recipe that combines simple yet nutritious ingredients, transforming them into a comforting and flavorful meal. Peas are rich in vitamins and minerals, while beef provides essential proteins, making this dish a perfect choice for a balanced diet.

Step by step:
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the carrot, onions, and bell pepper. Cut the carrot into small cubes, slice the onions thinly, and cut the bell pepper into strips. Mince the garlic.

2. Boil the peas: If using fresh peas, boil them in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain. If using frozen peas, let them thaw and move on to the next step.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet or pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the carrot and bell pepper, continuing to sauté for another 5 minutes.

4. Add the meat: Cut the beef into medium-sized cubes and add it to the skillet. Season the meat with salt and pepper, stirring well to brown evenly. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the meat is lightly browned.

5. Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle the tablespoon of flour over the meat and vegetables, stirring quickly to avoid lumps. This will help thicken the sauce and give a pleasant texture to the dish.

6. Add the tomato paste: Once the flour is well incorporated, add the tomato paste and mix well. This step will enhance the dish's flavor.

7. Let it simmer: Add the peas and the boiled carrot (or drained, if using frozen peas) and enough water to cover the ingredients (about 300 ml). Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. Check occasionally to see if you need to add more water.

8. Season and finish: After 20 minutes, taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Chop the fresh dill and add it to the dish, stirring gently to release its aroma.

9. Serve with pickles: This pea and beef stew is delicious served alongside pickles, which add a pleasant contrast of acidity and crunch. You can try pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut, depending on your preference.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a spicy flavor, you can include a finely chopped chili pepper during the vegetable sautéing stage.
- Instead of beef, you can use chicken, which cooks faster and will offer a different flavor profile.
- For a heartier dish, you can also add diced potatoes, which will cook along with the other ingredients.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 8 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned peas?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well and add them at the end of the cooking process so they don’t become too soft.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

3. What other dishes can it be paired with?
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes for a comforting lunch.

This pea and beef stew recipe is not just a delicious dish, but also a great way to bring the family together around the table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share this recipe with your loved ones! Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g peas, 100 g carrots, 2 onions, 1 bell pepper, 1 clove of garlic, 1 tablespoon of flour, 300 g beef, tomato paste, salt, pepper, dill