PEA STEW WITH DUMPLINGS

Pea stew with dumplings – a recipe full of comfort and joy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love the enticing aromas of a warm stew, with fresh peas and fluffy dumplings? This classic recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, rich in nutrients. Pea stew with dumplings is a dish that brings nostalgia from grandma's kitchen and will surely delight the whole family.

The history of this dish is steeped in tradition, often prepared on chilly days or during festive moments. Pea stew is frequently associated with the comfort of home and family meals, making each serving a true feast of memories.

Ingredients

For the stew:
- 400 g fresh or frozen peas
- 3 carrots
- 3 onions
- 2 chicken thighs (or chicken meat of choice)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 can of tomatoes in juice (about 400 g)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of parsley (optional)

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt
- Flour (about 200 g, add gradually until you achieve the desired consistency)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and washing the onions. Chop them finely, then sauté them in a large pan with a little oil. Add a question to ponder: "What flavors do I love most? Perhaps a dash of garlic or a bell pepper?" Adding these ingredients can enhance the flavor.

2. Adding the carrots
Peel and dice the carrots. Once the onion has started to become translucent, add the diced carrots and let them sauté together for about 2 minutes. This will reveal the wonderful flavors of the vegetables.

3. Peas and seasoning
Add the peas (if using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them beforehand). Sprinkle salt, pepper, and 3/4 of the chopped dill. Dill not only adds flavor but also a fresh note to the dish.

4. Preparing the meat
Meanwhile, boil the chicken in salted water, then rinse it and add it to the stew. This will add flavor and enrich the texture of the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip this step and use only vegetables.

5. Preparing the dumplings
In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the olive oil, mixing continuously. Finally, incorporate the flour until you achieve a firmer dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes. This step is essential for obtaining fluffy and airy dumplings.

6. Boiling the dumplings
After the dough has rested, shape small dumplings the size of a walnut. Boil them separately in a pot of salted water for 10-12 minutes, until they rise to the surface.

7. Finishing the stew
Once the carrots in the stew are cooked, add the canned tomatoes and let it simmer for another 15 minutes. Finally, add the remaining dill, chopped parsley, and the boiled dumplings. Gently stir to integrate all the ingredients.

8. Serving
Serve this pea stew with dumplings hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a crispy green salad. A personal suggestion: you can add a few drops of balsamic vinegar for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips

- Fresh ingredients: Always choose fresh ingredients, especially for peas and dill, to achieve an authentic taste. If using frozen peas, ensure they are of good quality.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as green beans or zucchini, to vary the recipe. Additionally, the dumplings can be flavored with herbs or grated cheese.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein from the meat, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, providing a balanced meal. A serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat and oil used.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or even fish, but the cooking time will vary.

How can I store the stew for later?
The stew keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Of course! You can omit the meat and use only vegetables, and the dumplings can be adapted with almond flour or oat flour for a vegan version.

Conclusion

Pea stew with dumplings is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to a meal full of warmth and joy. Whether you prepare it for your family or for a special occasion, each serving brings with it a story and a memory. I wish you good appetite and enjoy every bite!