Pea Stew with Smoked Bacon
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Are you dreaming of a delicious meal that combines the sweet taste of peas with the intense flavor of smoked meat? Pea stew with smoked bacon is the perfect choice! This simple and quick recipe will not only delight you with its flavor but will also remind you of family meals during summer days when fresh vegetables and smoked meats came together in a pot. Let’s embark on our culinary journey!
Ingredients needed
- 2 medium-sized onions
- 2 bell peppers (preferably different colors for an attractive look)
- 20 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil is ideal)
- 700 g frozen peas (make sure they are high quality)
- 3 tomatoes (grated; you can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available)
- 1 small can of tomato paste (about 70 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill, chopped (one bunch)
- About 400 g smoked bacon
Preparation
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and bell peppers. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to save time. Make sure the vegetables are cut evenly for even cooking.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a deep skillet or pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and lightly golden. This step will release the flavors of the vegetables, creating a delicious base for your dish.
3. Add water and peas: Pour about 200 ml of water into the skillet, then add the frozen peas. If you’re using fresh peas, make sure to wash them well. Gently stir to combine the ingredients and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
4. Tomatoes and tomato paste: When the peas are nearly done, add the grated tomatoes to the skillet. The tomatoes will add a sweet and tangy flavor and a vibrant color to the dish. After a few minutes, add the tomato paste. This will bind and color the dish, giving it a rich flavor. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
5. Season: Finally, adjust the taste with salt and pepper. Add the chopped dill, which will bring an extra freshness to the dish. Cover again with a lid and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Preparing the bacon: In a separate skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Cut the bacon into slices of your desired thickness (typically 1-2 cm is ideal) and fry them on both sides until golden and crispy. This step will enhance the flavor of the smoked meat, making it irresistible.
7. Serving: Serve the pea stew hot, with the slices of smoked bacon on the side. You can add a slice of fresh bread to complete the meal. A tomato or cabbage salad can also be an excellent accompaniment.
Practical tips
- About frozen peas: Choose high-quality frozen peas that retain nutrients and flavor. This is a convenient option as it can be used directly from the freezer without needing to thaw.
- Meat variation: If you prefer, you can replace the smoked bacon with chicken or pork, cut into cubes. Cook the meat separately until tender, then add it to the stew.
- Herbs: Besides dill, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil, depending on your preferences.
Nutritional benefits
This pea stew is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Peas contain fiber that aids digestion and provides a feeling of fullness. The smoked bacon adds a source of protein and healthy fats, but consumption of this dish should be moderate due to its salt content.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use fresh peas?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but you will need to cook them for a shorter time, as they cook faster than frozen ones.
- How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chopped hot peppers or ground black pepper for an extra kick.
- Can the dish be frozen?
Yes, this recipe can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.
Pairing recommendations
Pea stew pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as freshly squeezed tomato juice or a dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the dish. You can also try serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.
Personal note
This recipe for pea stew with smoked bacon is not just a simple dish, but a memory of my childhood when my grandmother would make it every summer. The aroma of fresh vegetables mixed with smoked bacon brought from the market turned every meal into a feast. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!
Enjoy your meal!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Are you dreaming of a delicious meal that combines the sweet taste of peas with the intense flavor of smoked meat? Pea stew with smoked bacon is the perfect choice! This simple and quick recipe will not only delight you with its flavor but will also remind you of family meals during summer days when fresh vegetables and smoked meats came together in a pot. Let’s embark on our culinary journey!
Ingredients needed
- 2 medium-sized onions
- 2 bell peppers (preferably different colors for an attractive look)
- 20 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil is ideal)
- 700 g frozen peas (make sure they are high quality)
- 3 tomatoes (grated; you can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available)
- 1 small can of tomato paste (about 70 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill, chopped (one bunch)
- About 400 g smoked bacon
Preparation
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and bell peppers. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to save time. Make sure the vegetables are cut evenly for even cooking.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a deep skillet or pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and lightly golden. This step will release the flavors of the vegetables, creating a delicious base for your dish.
3. Add water and peas: Pour about 200 ml of water into the skillet, then add the frozen peas. If you’re using fresh peas, make sure to wash them well. Gently stir to combine the ingredients and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
4. Tomatoes and tomato paste: When the peas are nearly done, add the grated tomatoes to the skillet. The tomatoes will add a sweet and tangy flavor and a vibrant color to the dish. After a few minutes, add the tomato paste. This will bind and color the dish, giving it a rich flavor. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
5. Season: Finally, adjust the taste with salt and pepper. Add the chopped dill, which will bring an extra freshness to the dish. Cover again with a lid and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Preparing the bacon: In a separate skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Cut the bacon into slices of your desired thickness (typically 1-2 cm is ideal) and fry them on both sides until golden and crispy. This step will enhance the flavor of the smoked meat, making it irresistible.
7. Serving: Serve the pea stew hot, with the slices of smoked bacon on the side. You can add a slice of fresh bread to complete the meal. A tomato or cabbage salad can also be an excellent accompaniment.
Practical tips
- About frozen peas: Choose high-quality frozen peas that retain nutrients and flavor. This is a convenient option as it can be used directly from the freezer without needing to thaw.
- Meat variation: If you prefer, you can replace the smoked bacon with chicken or pork, cut into cubes. Cook the meat separately until tender, then add it to the stew.
- Herbs: Besides dill, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil, depending on your preferences.
Nutritional benefits
This pea stew is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Peas contain fiber that aids digestion and provides a feeling of fullness. The smoked bacon adds a source of protein and healthy fats, but consumption of this dish should be moderate due to its salt content.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use fresh peas?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but you will need to cook them for a shorter time, as they cook faster than frozen ones.
- How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chopped hot peppers or ground black pepper for an extra kick.
- Can the dish be frozen?
Yes, this recipe can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.
Pairing recommendations
Pea stew pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as freshly squeezed tomato juice or a dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the dish. You can also try serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.
Personal note
This recipe for pea stew with smoked bacon is not just a simple dish, but a memory of my childhood when my grandmother would make it every summer. The aroma of fresh vegetables mixed with smoked bacon brought from the market turned every meal into a feast. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!
Enjoy your meal!