Pea stew with fresh pork ribs and mini carrots

Pea food with fresh pork ribs and mini-carrots is a true feast of flavors, a traditional recipe that combines the savoriness of meat with the sweetness of peas and carrots. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also take you on a culinary journey full of stories. Let's get started!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 600-700 g fresh pork ribs
- 1 kg peas (fresh or frozen)
- 4-5 green onion stalks
- 1 green garlic stalk
- A handful of mini-carrots (or finely chopped carrots)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- Peppercorns (optional)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Fresh or dried dill
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the peas)

Recipe History:
This recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a popular dish in many cultures. It is comfort food, ideal for family meals, bringing together seasonal ingredients in a delicious combination. The pork ribs provide a rich flavor, while the peas and carrots add a touch of freshness.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by cutting the pork ribs into suitable pieces, about 4-5 cm long. These pieces will add extra flavor to the dish. Season them with salt and ground pepper, making sure they are evenly coated.

2. Browning the Ribs:
In a deep skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the pieces of pork ribs. Brown them on both sides until they become golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Then, remove them to a plate and set aside.

3. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, with the remaining oil, add the chopped green onion and green garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until they become translucent and aromatic.

4. Adding the Mini-Carrots and Water:
Add the mini-carrots (or chopped carrots) to the skillet and mix well. Then, return the browned pork ribs to the skillet. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, then season with salt. Let it simmer on low heat until the meat and carrots are almost cooked, about 30 minutes.

5. Incorporating the Peas:
Once the meat is nearly done, add the peas (if using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them beforehand). Add a few bay leaves, some peppercorns, and enough water to cover everything. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

6. Finalizing the Dish:
Add the tomato paste, mixing well to combine all the flavors. Adjust the taste with salt, pepper, and if needed, a bit of sugar – this last ingredient helps balance the flavor. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

7. Serving:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped dill on top of the dish. Serve the pea food with pork ribs in a generous bowl, alongside a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta. It is a dish best enjoyed with loved ones.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Pork Ribs: Opt for fresh ribs with a moderate amount of fat for a juicy dish.
- Peas: If using frozen peas, make sure to add them at the end to keep their crunchy texture.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the pork ribs with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use canned peas?
Yes, but add the canned peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid them getting too soft.

2. How can I enhance the flavor?
You can add spices like paprika or thyme for extra flavor.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add potatoes or green beans to diversify the recipe.

This pea dish with pork ribs is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring family and friends together. With each serving, you will enjoy an explosion of flavors and pleasant memories, making every meal a special occasion. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let's enjoy this delicious recipe together!