Pea stew with pork

Pea dish with pork: a savory and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the aroma of tender meat with the sweetness of peas? This pea dish with pork is not only delicious but also extremely easy to prepare. It is a meal that brings to mind pleasant moments spent with family, at Sunday dinners, when everyone gathers to enjoy a warm and comforting serving.

Historically, pea dishes with pork are a classic recipe that has been cooked for generations. This recipe combines simple and accessible ingredients, offering a unique flavor through slow cooking. It provides not only an extraordinary taste but also nutritional benefits, thanks to the high protein content from the meat and the vitamins from the vegetables.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg lean pork (choose a piece with a bit of fat for a richer taste)
- 500 g sweet peas (you can use frozen green peas, which retain their flavor)
- 2 large onions
- 1 large carrot
- 2 ripe tomatoes (or 200 g canned tomatoes for a more intense flavor)
- 1 red pepper (bell pepper, for sweetness)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive oil is ideal)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1-2 tablespoons of flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 100 g sour cream (for a creamy taste)
- 1 teaspoon Vegeta (or another favorite seasoning)
- chopped fresh parsley and dill (for an extra freshness)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and slicing the onion into thin pieces. The onion will add a special flavor, so don’t neglect it. Then, peel the carrot and cut it into small cubes. Similarly, prepare the pepper and tomatoes (if using fresh tomatoes, it is recommended to remove the skin for a smoother sauce).

Step 2: Cooking the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat well. When the oil is hot, add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. Now is the time to add the carrot, pepper, and tomatoes. Continue to sauté them together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their flavors.

Step 3: Cooking the meat
Cut the pork into cubes and add it to the pot, covering the vegetable mixture. Let the meat cook over medium heat until it releases its juices, stirring occasionally. This step is essential for achieving tender and juicy meat. Once the meat starts to brown, add the paprika and mix well. If necessary, add a little water to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Seasoning and boiling
Now is the time to season the dish. Add salt, pepper, Vegeta, bay leaf, thyme, and marjoram. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat, covered, until the meat is almost cooked (about 30-40 minutes). In the meantime, make sure to stir occasionally.

Step 5: Adding the peas
When the meat is almost cooked, add the green peas. Continue to simmer until the peas become tender, but not too much, so they don’t lose their texture. This will add a wonderful contrast of color and texture to your dish.

Step 6: Thickening the sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the sour cream and ½ cup of water until you obtain a smooth mixture. Add this mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the dish simmer for a few minutes, so the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 7: Finishing the dish
Before turning off the heat, add the chopped parsley and dill. These will add a fresh look and delicious aroma. Mix well and remove the dish from the heat.

Serving suggestions
The pea dish with pork is served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. It is also wonderful with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish. Additionally, we suggest sharing this dish with loved ones, as food cooked with love and shared with others becomes truly special.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to diversify the dish.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned peas?
Yes, but it is recommended to add them towards the end of cooking, so they don't break apart.

2. Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Absolutely! The dish can be prepared a day in advance, and the flavor will become even more intense after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides bread or polenta, a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes pair perfectly.

Nutritional benefits
This dish is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals due to its ingredients. Peas are an excellent source of fiber, and pork provides essential nutrients.

Calories
A serving of pea dish with pork contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used and the servings served.

In conclusion, this recipe for pea dish with pork is not just a simple recipe but an invitation to savor beautiful moments spent with family and friends. So, embark on the cooking adventure and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!