Pea stew with chicken

Pea stew with chicken - A comforting and flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Pea stew with chicken is a traditional dish that brings back childhood memories, family moments, and the warm aromas of a lovingly cooked meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and above all, delicious, and the readily available ingredients make it perfect for a weeknight dinner as well as for a special occasion.

The history of pea stew is tied to popular culinary traditions, where fresh vegetables and chicken meat harmoniously combined to create a nourishing and tasty dish. It is a meal that can be adapted based on the ingredients available, making it versatile and loved by many.

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g chicken meat (thighs or breast, depending on preference)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 red peppers
- 400 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3-4 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- Water, enough to cover the ingredients
- Pepper and fresh or dried dill, to taste

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cutting and washing the chicken meat well. If using thighs, remove the skin, and for the breast, cut it into cubes or strips. Wash the meat under a cold running water and let it drain.
Peel the onions, bell pepper, and red peppers. Chop the onion finely, and dice the bell pepper and red peppers. These vegetables will give a special flavor to your dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is an important step because sautéed onion will add a flavorful base to your stew.
Once the onion is ready, add the chopped bell pepper and red peppers. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will intensify the flavors and provide a rich taste.

3. Adding the meat
Now it’s time to add the chicken meat to the pot. Mix well to coat the meat with the sautéed vegetables. Let everything cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until the meat changes color and becomes opaque. This step is essential to seal the juiciness of the meat.

4. Cooking the stew
Add water to the pot, enough to cover the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the meat is well cooked. Check occasionally, and if necessary, add more water.
After the meat is cooked, add the peas and vegetable seasoning (or salt), stirring gently. Let it simmer together for 5-7 minutes until the peas become tender.

5. Finishing the dish
When the peas are ready, remove the pot from the heat. Taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A sprinkle of fresh or dried dill on top will add a fresh taste and pleasant aroma.

Serving suggestions:
This pea stew with chicken is delicious served warm alongside a portion of polenta or a slice of fresh bread. It also pairs wonderfully with a summer salad or assorted pickles, which add a pleasant contrast.

Tips and variations:
If you want to add extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste during cooking or try including other vegetables like carrots or zucchini. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, you can use smoked chicken meat, which will give the dish a unique character.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned peas?
Yes, you can use canned peas, but add them towards the end of cooking to avoid them becoming too soft.

- Is this recipe healthy?
Definitely! Pea stew with chicken is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.

- How long does it keep?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it on the stove or in the oven, adding a little water to restore its juiciness.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This stew contains approximately 350 calories per serving, providing a good source of protein from the meat and fiber from the vegetables. Peas are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while chicken provides essential proteins for a balanced diet.

Pea stew with chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that can bring joy and comfort to your table. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and love behind every ingredient. So take your time to enjoy this dish and share it with your loved ones!