Pea stew with meat

Pea stew with meat: A spring feast on every plate

When it comes to seasonal dishes, pea stew with meat is definitely a recipe that brings joy and warmth to the soul. This traditional recipe combines the delicate flavor of peas with the savoriness of pork, resulting in a dish that will delight your taste buds and bring the family together at the table. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 400 g pork shoulder
- 1 can of peas (about 400 g)
- 1 carrot
- 1 large onion
- 1 green onion (with leaves)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley

A bit of history
Pea stew with meat has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a dish that has brought generations of families together at everyday meals. Peas, an easy-to-grow and highly nutritious ingredient, have been an essential food source for many people throughout history. Combined with meat, this dish becomes not only filling but also full of flavor.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork shoulder well under a stream of cold water. Then, cut the meat into suitable pieces, about 3-4 cm, for even cooking. This will help achieve a juicy and tender texture.

2. Searing the meat: In a deep pot, heat the two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the pieces of meat and fry them until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat and intensify the flavor.

3. Adding water: Once the meat is browned, pour a glass of water (about 250 ml) into the pot, enough to cover the meat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the meat becomes tender.

4. The vegetables: While the meat is simmering, finely chop the large onion and grate the carrot. After the meat has cooked, add the onion and carrot to the pot. Let them simmer together for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables become slightly soft and release their flavors.

5. The peas and tomato paste: Add the can of peas (drained of liquid) and the two tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot. This paste will add a note of acidity and enhance the flavor of the dish. Mix well, then let it simmer for another 2 minutes.

6. Beaten egg: In a small bowl, beat the egg and, after turning off the heat, gradually add it to the pot, stirring vigorously. This step will create those delicious "scrambles" that enrich the texture of the dish.

7. Season: Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Don't forget to add the finely chopped green onion, which will bring an extra freshness.

8. Serving: Once you have turned off the heat, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Serve the dish warm, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. This will add a final touch of color and flavor.

Practical tips
- Choose quality meat: Opt for pork with a moderate fat content to achieve a juicy and tasty dish.
- Fresh peas: If you have access to fresh peas, don't hesitate to use them instead of canned ones. They will bring a superior taste and texture.
- Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour diluted in water before adding the peas.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as potatoes or peppers, to diversify the dish.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, chicken is a delicious and leaner alternative. Make sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken cooks faster.
- Can the pea stew be frozen? Yes, this dish freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.
- What side dish pairs best? A slice of fresh bread or polenta are excellent accompaniments to complete this dish.

Delicious combinations
Pea stew with meat pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or pickles, adding a crunchy and fresh contrast. Also, a glass of dry white wine or mint lemonade are ideal options to accompany the meal.

Nutritional benefits
Peas are rich in protein, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, aiding in healthy digestion. Pork provides an important supply of iron and zinc, essential for the body's health.

Personal note
This recipe for pea stew with meat is not just a simple dish, but a memory of my childhood when my grandmother lovingly prepared this meal for me. The aroma and taste always bring a feeling of comfort and warmth. I encourage you to try it and share this recipe with your loved ones, turning every meal into a celebration!

Now that you have all this information, it's time to start cooking! Pea stew with meat is waiting for you to discover and enjoy it!