Peas with smoked sausages

Peas with Smoked Sausages – A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting meal that brings back fond memories of family moments? Peas with smoked sausages is a simple yet flavor-packed recipe, perfect for a dinner on chilly days or to delight guests at a festive meal. This delicious combination of fresh and aromatic ingredients has been enjoyed across many cultures and is a popular choice due to its versatility.

Ingredients:
- 700 g peas (ideally pre-cooked)
- 2 smoked sausages (choose good quality for an intense flavor)
- 2 tomatoes (fresh, for added flavor)
- 2 carrots (sweet and crunchy)
- 2 white onions (providing a flavorful base)
- 1 green onion (for a fresh taste)
- 1 piece of celery (to deepen the flavors)
- 1 red bell pepper (for color and sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper (adds a nice contrast)
- 12 new potatoes (whole, to maintain their texture)
- 50 ml tomato juice (for a touch of acidity)
- Spices to taste (salt and pepper)
- 1-2 cups vegetable broth (for a rich flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (for sautéing the vegetables)

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Cut the onions, carrots, celery, and peppers into small cubes. You can roughly chop the tomatoes. Slice the sausages into thick pieces (1-2 cm) for even frying and flavor release.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the white onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Continue with the carrot, celery, and peppers. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their aromas.

3. Adding the sausages: Add the sliced sausages and let them fry together with the vegetables, stirring occasionally. They will release a smoky flavor that will enrich the dish.

4. Potatoes and vegetable broth: Add the whole potatoes to the skillet and pour in the vegetable broth to cover the ingredients. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.

5. Adding the peas: At this point, add the pre-cooked peas and the tomato mixture. These will add a splash of freshness and a note of acidity to the dish. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper, mix well, and let everything simmer on low heat until the potatoes are soft and the mixture has thickened, about 15-20 minutes.

6. Finishing the dish: When all the ingredients are perfectly cooked, add the freshly chopped dill. This will provide a note of freshness and complement the rich flavors of the dish. Gently mix and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

What to serve alongside?
Peas with smoked sausages are delicious served with warm focaccia or homemade bread. A glass of white wine or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meal. You can also try serving this dish with a simple green salad with lemon dressing for a fresh contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (iron, magnesium). Smoked sausages add a dose of protein, while fresh vegetables enrich the dish with essential nutrients. However, it's wise to be mindful of portions to avoid excessive calorie intake, considering that sausages can be higher in fat.

Possible variations:
- You can replace smoked sausages with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Add spices like sweet or hot paprika for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with other seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or green beans to diversify the recipe.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas are an excellent option, and the cooking time will be similar.
2. What can I use instead of smoked sausages?
You can opt for chicken or turkey sausages, or even for a vegetarian version, you can add smoked tofu.
3. Is vegetable broth necessary?
If you don’t have vegetable broth, water can be used, but the flavor will be less rich.

Savor every bite of this recipe for peas with smoked sausages! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a true culinary experience that brings joy and warmth to every home. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your tastes, bringing a touch of your creativity to every plate. Enjoy your meal!