Pea stew with carrots

Pea and Carrot Sauté - A Green Delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will prepare a sauté of peas and carrots, a simple yet refined recipe that will bring a touch of freshness and color to your table. This recipe is perfect not only for a quick lunch but also as a side dish for a juicy steak or baked fish. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to delight you.

A brief history of the recipe

Vegetable sautéing is a culinary technique that has been used over time in various cultures to preserve the flavors and nutrients of vegetables. This cooking method is quick and efficient, allowing the vegetables to shine on the plate. Peas and carrots are common ingredients, but their combination offers an unmistakable, sweet, and aromatic taste.

Ingredients:

- 1 1/2 cans of peas (about 400 g, drained)
- 2 small carrots (or 1 large)
- 1 green onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 cup of white wine (or water if you prefer a non-alcoholic version)
- Olive oil (3-4 tablespoons)
- Salt, pepper, a little basil and fresh parsley (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by draining the peas from the can and rinsing them well under cold water. This step is essential to remove excess sodium and preservatives. Then, peel the carrots and slice them thinly. The green onion and garlic will be chopped, so you can cut them finely to facilitate the process.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Use a food processor to chop the green onion and garlic along with the carrots. This technique will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture. If you do not have a food processor, you can chop them manually, but make sure they are cut into small pieces.

3. Heating the pan: In a wok pan, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is well heated, add the chopped vegetable mixture. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Adding water: Once the vegetables start to soften, add enough water to cover the ingredients. This will help cook the vegetables and create a flavorful base. Repeat this process 2-3 times until the carrots become tender.

5. Wine and spices: When the vegetables are cooked, add the cup of white wine. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the wine with water or vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and fresh parsley, mixing well to combine the flavors.

6. Sour cream mixture: In a small bowl, mix the flour with water until you get a smooth paste. Then add the sour cream and mix again. This combination will thicken the sauce and add a creamy note to the dish. Add this mixture to the pan and stir well. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.

7. Finishing the dish: When the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are cooked, turn off the heat and sprinkle dried parsley on top to add a touch of freshness.

Serving:

The pea and carrot sauté is delicious served as is or alongside grilled meat or fish. You can add a slice of lemon for an extra acidity that will perfectly balance the sweetness of the peas and carrots. Additionally, this sauté pairs wonderfully with a serving of basmati rice or quinoa.

Helpful tips:

- If you want to add a touch of spice, you can include some chopped chili pepper in the vegetable mixture.
- For an even healthier version, you can use fresh or frozen peas, which retain their nutrients beautifully.
- Vary the recipe by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to create a colorful and vitamin-packed sauté.

Nutritional benefits:

Peas are an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, and B vitamins, while carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, essential for eye health. This dish is not only delicious but also very healthy, with a moderate caloric intake, ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen peas? Absolutely! Frozen peas are an excellent alternative and retain their nutrients.
- What other spices can I add? Depending on your preferences, you can experiment with cumin, coriander, or even a splash of soy sauce for an Asian flavor.
- How can I store leftovers? You can transfer the remaining sauté to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

I hope this pea and carrot sauté recipe brings you joy in the kitchen. Don’t forget to share your impressions and explore variations of this recipe. Cooking is an art, so don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine! Enjoy your meal!