Peas with smoked bacon

Smoked Bacon Peas Recipe - A Savory Delight

Peas with smoked bacon is a dish that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every bite. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of peas with the intense taste of smoked bacon, resulting in a perfect dish for cool days or a quick yet comforting dinner. Additionally, it is an excellent way to serve a plate rich in nutrients and full of flavor.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 jar of peas (approximately 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 200 g of smoked bacon, diced

Preparation:
1. Preparing the peas: Start by draining the peas from the jar and rinsing them under cold running water. This step is important to remove excess salt and preservatives, allowing the ingredients to shine in the final dish.

2. Boiling the peas: Place the peas in a pot with water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the peas for about 3 minutes. This short boiling time will help maintain the vibrant color and delicate texture of the peas. After 3 minutes, drain the peas and set them aside.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. The aroma of sautéed onions will add a rich flavor base to your dish.

4. Adding the carrot and tomato paste: Next, add the grated carrot and tomato paste. Mix well and let the mixture sauté together for 5 minutes. The carrot will bring a touch of sweetness and enrich the color of the sauce.

5. Incorporating the peas and bacon: Add the drained peas and diced smoked bacon to the skillet. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients (about 200 ml). Allow the dish to come to a boil.

6. Thickening the sauce: When the mixture starts to boil, prepare a mixture of the 2 tablespoons of flour and a little water (about 50 ml), mixing well to avoid lumps. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir constantly. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens. At this stage, add the chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finishing the dish: Before serving, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top. This will add a note of freshness and a contrast in texture.

Serving suggestion:
This delicacy pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish. You can also pair this recipe with a simple green salad to add an extra touch of freshness.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked bacon with tofu or mushrooms, which will bring an umami flavor to the dish. You can also experiment with adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to provide an even more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Peas are rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making this dish a healthy choice. The smoked bacon adds a source of protein and fats, but you can adjust the amount to suit your nutritional preferences.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, frozen peas are an excellent option. Make sure to boil them for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the recipe.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add bell peppers, diced potatoes, or even some olives for a more intense flavor.

3. How can I store leftovers?
You can store the peas with smoked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.

After following these steps, you will have a delicious dish full of flavors that delight the senses. Cooking is about bringing joy, and this smoked bacon peas recipe is certainly a way to pamper your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!