Peas with bacon

Peas with Ham: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

How often do we ask ourselves what to prepare for dinner, wanting it to be both tasty and quick? Today I present to you a simple yet flavorful recipe: peas with ham. This dish is perfect for days when you don’t have much time but still want to enjoy a warm and comforting meal.

A Brief Introduction

Peas are a versatile ingredient, appreciated over time for their sweet flavor and pleasant texture. They have been cultivated for thousands of years and are an excellent source of plant protein, vitamins, and minerals. Combined with ham or bacon, peas become a hearty dish, ideal for both lunch and dinner.

Necessary Ingredients (4 servings)

- 1 large jar of peas (about 720 ml)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Ham or bacon (depending on preference; the amount is up to you)
- Oil for sautéing (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- A pinch of sweet paprika
- 1 cube of broth or 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning (e.g., Delikat)
- A pinch of ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 100 ml of water
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion. This will add a delicious aroma to the dish. Also, cut the ham or bacon into small cubes.

2. Sautéing the Onion: In a pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until it becomes slightly golden and translucent. Here, you can also add finely chopped garlic for a more intense flavor.

3. Adding the Ham: Add the ham cubes to the pan and let them fry alongside the onion for another 3-4 minutes. This step will make the ham crispy, adding a pleasant texture to the dish.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle the paprika and mix well. The paprika will add warmth and color to the dish. Then, add the peas from the jar, draining any excess water.

5. Cooking the Peas: Add enough water to cover the peas, then let everything simmer on low heat, covered, for about 10-15 minutes. Here, you can season with the broth or Delikat and a pinch of black pepper to taste.

6. Preparing the Roux: In a small bowl, mix the flour with 100 ml of water, making sure no lumps form. This mixture will help thicken the sauce.

7. Finalizing the Dish: After the peas have cooked, add the roux to the pan, pouring it in a thin stream while constantly stirring. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy.

8. Serving: Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top of the dish. Serve it warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or as a side for a main course.

Practical Tips

- Variations: Instead of ham, you can use bacon or even some slices of sausage for a different flavor.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables, bringing culinary balance.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of peas with ham has about 250-300 calories, being a good source of protein and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen peas? Yes, you can use frozen peas. In this case, you will need to boil them a bit longer to soften.
- What other spices can I add? You can experiment with dried herbs like oregano or thyme to add extra flavor.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

A Personal Note

This peas with ham recipe is one of my favorites due to its simplicity and comforting taste. I remember how, in my childhood, my mother often made it, and the aroma that spread through the kitchen would make me instantly hungry. I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do!

Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your tastes. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create something special. Enjoy your meal!