Turkey with peas and potatoes

Turkey with Peas and Potatoes - a simple, tasty, and nutritious recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a warm dish that brings so many flavors and is packed with nutrients? This turkey with peas and potatoes recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests. It’s a main course that combines the proteins from turkey meat with healthy carbohydrates from potatoes and fiber from peas, offering a savory taste and a delicious texture. Plus, the dish is easy to make, making every step a pleasure.

Recipe History

Dishes made with turkey are an integral part of many culinary cultures, with deep roots in the gastronomic traditions of communities that appreciate lean and healthy meat. Turkey is a versatile ingredient that pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables, and the combination with peas and potatoes is a classic example of comfort food. This recipe has been passed down through generations, each adding a personal touch, transforming it into a true culinary treasure.

Ingredients

- 1 boneless turkey thigh (approximately 500 g)
- 6 medium potatoes (preferably type A)
- 1 small can of peas (approximately 400 g)
- 1 green onion
- 1 bell pepper (any color you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Thyme (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the meat
Start by washing the turkey thigh well under cold running water. Then, cut the meat into suitable pieces, about 3-4 cm, to ensure even cooking. Season each piece with salt and pepper. It’s important not to skip this step, as the spices will add depth and flavor to the final dish.

2. Enhancing the flavor
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pieces of turkey and cook until they change color, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for sealing in the juices of the meat, providing a richer taste.

3. Adding the vegetables
Once the meat is browned, add the sliced green onion and gently stir. Allow the onion to soften for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the diced bell pepper and stir again.

4. Boiling the ingredients
Cover everything with water and let it boil for 15-20 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to combine and the meat to become tender. You can check occasionally, adding water if necessary.

5. Preparing the potatoes
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes. This is important to ensure they cook evenly. After the 20 minutes have passed, add the potatoes to the pot with the turkey and the bay leaf. The bay leaf will add a subtle yet distinctive flavor.

6. Finishing the dish
When the potatoes are almost cooked, add the tomato paste and thyme. Let it simmer for a few minutes so that the flavors meld perfectly. Finally, drain the peas from the can and add them to the pot. Allow everything to boil for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.

7. Serving
The dish can be served hot, straight from the pot, or you can transfer it to a nice serving dish. A serving suggestion would be to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and freshness. You can accompany this dish with a simple green salad or fresh homemade bread.

Helpful tips

- Make sure to cut the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves or herbs like oregano or basil.
- You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to add more variety.
- Instead of tomato paste, you can use tomato sauce or even diluted tomato paste for a richer taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, you can use chicken, but the cooking time may vary. Just be sure to monitor it to avoid drying out.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots, zucchini, or even fresh peas, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier?
You can add chopped hot peppers or chili flakes for a stronger flavor.

4. Is this dish healthy?
Yes, turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables provide essential fiber and vitamins. This recipe is balanced and filling.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the turkey meat, which is rich in essential nutrients such as B vitamins, zinc, and iron. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, supplying the energy needed for an active day, while peas are high in fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining intestinal health.

Estimated calories per serving: approximately 400-450 kcal, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

This turkey with peas and potatoes recipe is an excellent choice for a delicious, hearty, and nutrient-packed meal. I encourage you to try it and personalize it according to your preferences. Enjoy your meal!