Pea dish with meat

Pea stew with meat – a comforting and flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a warm, flavorful meal that reminds you of the days spent with loved ones? Pea stew with meat is a classic recipe that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious and comforting dish. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to personal preferences, making it suitable for both fasting days and those when we want to indulge in meat.

Let’s embark on this adventure of preparing pea stew together!

Ingredients

- 500 g frozen peas (or fresh, if you’re lucky enough to find them)
- 200 g gizzards and hearts (must be fresh or high-quality frozen)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced thin
- 1 carrot, grated or diced
- 1 small celery root, finely chopped
- 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spices (such as bay leaves, thyme, or marjoram) – to taste
- A handful of fresh dill, finely chopped
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing

Step by step

1. Cleaning and preparing the gizzards and hearts
Start by cleaning the gizzards and hearts. Make sure to wash them well under cold running water, removing any impurities. Place them in a pot with cold water and let them boil. During boiling, remember to remove the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a cleaner and tastier dish.

2. Heating the oil
In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or a small piece of butter. Heat the oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

3. Adding the vegetables
Add the finely chopped carrot and celery to the skillet. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. They will add a delicious flavor to the dish.

4. Incorporating the bell pepper and peas
Once the vegetables have softened, add the sliced bell pepper and peas. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Adding the broth from the gizzards
Take a cup of the broth in which the gizzards and hearts boiled and pour it over the vegetable mixture. This step will enhance the flavor of the dish. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the peas are tender.

6. Adding the final ingredients
When the peas are cooked, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, salt, pepper, and chosen spices. Mix well and let everything simmer for 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors.

7. Including the meat
Add the boiled gizzards and hearts to the pea mixture and let it simmer together for a few minutes until the meat is heated through.

8. Finishing the dish
When you have the desired consistency, turn off the heat and add the chopped dill. This will bring a touch of freshness and flavor.

9. Optional – gratin
If you desire a crispy top, you can transfer the dish to a baking dish, sprinkle some grated cheese on top, and let it gratin for 10-15 minutes at 180°C.

Serving suggestions

This pea stew with meat is delicious served warm, alongside a portion of polenta or a slice of fresh bread. It also pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a fruit compote to balance the flavors.

Variations and useful tips

- Vegetarian variation: If you prefer a fasting version, you can omit the gizzards and hearts, using boiled water or vegetable broth to enhance the flavor.
- Choosing the meat: For a richer taste, you can use pork or poultry. Chicken will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time based on the chosen ingredients.
- Tips for a more intense flavor: Add a teaspoon of soy sauce or a few drops of balsamic vinegar for a more complex taste.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh peas? Yes, make sure they are well cleaned and cooked in time.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavor improves the next day.

This pea stew with meat recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Peas are an excellent source of plant protein, vitamins, and minerals, while gizzards and hearts are rich in iron and protein. Thus, you not only enjoy a delicious dish but also considerable nutritional benefits.

Try this recipe and savor every bite, knowing you’ve created a dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!