Pea stew with vegetable ragout

Pea dish with vegetable stew

I propose a delicious recipe for pea dish with vegetable stew, perfect for days when you want to enjoy a healthy and comforting meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and full of nutrients, making it ideal for the whole family. Here’s how to prepare it step by step, along with some tips and useful information about the ingredients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 jar of peas (or 400 g of fresh peas from your own garden for a more intense flavor)
- 1 jar of vegetable stew (approximately 400 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 tablespoon of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of water
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by preparing the ingredients. If you are using fresh peas, wash them well and remove the fibers. If you opted for jarred peas, make sure to rinse them gently under cold water to remove any preservatives.

2. Chopping the onion:
Finely chop the onion. This will provide a sweet and aromatic flavor to your dish, so don’t neglect it.

3. Sautéing the onion:
In a large skillet, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until it becomes golden and soft. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

4. Adding the peas:
Once the onion is sautéed, add the peas to the skillet. If using fresh peas, let them cook for 10-15 minutes until tender. If using jarred peas, stir well and let them heat through.

5. Incorporating the vegetable stew:
After the peas are ready, add the jar of vegetable stew. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors.

6. Preparing the thickening:
In a separate container, mix the flour with one cup of water, forming a homogeneous mixture. Gradually add this mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Let the dish simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.

7. Finalizing the dish:
Once the dish has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

8. Serving:
Serve the pea dish warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a side of rice.

Useful tips

- Vegetarian option: If you want a heartier version, you can add cubes of tofu or tempeh while sautéing the onion. They will absorb the flavors and provide an extra protein boost.

- Additional flavoring: You can also add a pinch of sweet or hot paprika for a more intense flavor. Additionally, aromatic herbs like marjoram or basil can add extra savoriness.

- Alternative thickening: If you prefer a healthier option, you can use cornstarch instead of flour, mixing it with cold water before adding it to the dish.

Nutritional benefits

Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (iron, magnesium). They help maintain digestive health and are low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet. The vegetable stew adds even more vitamins and minerals, making this dish a nutritious choice.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas are an excellent option and will cook similarly to fresh ones.

2. What other vegetables could I add?
You can experiment with carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, all of which will add extra texture and flavor.

3. How can I store the dish?
The pea dish stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if necessary.

Serving suggestions

This pea dish with vegetable stew pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. You can also add a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.

Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress friends, this recipe for pea dish with vegetable stew will surely bring a touch of freshness and good taste to your table. Experiment, personalize, and enjoy every bite!