Pea stew (vegan)

Pea dish – A simple, quick, and delicious recipe, perfect for a comforting meal

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious and healthy world of simple recipes! Today we will prepare a pea dish together, a recipe that combines the flavor of fresh vegetables with the ease of preparation. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, being rich in vitamins and minerals due to the ingredients used. It is ideal for fasting days as well as for a healthy family lunch.

A bit of history:
The pea dish has been a beloved preparation in many cultures over time, thanks to its versatility. It is a recipe that brings to mind summer meals when fresh peas appear in markets. This vegetable is not only delicious but also an excellent source of plant protein, often used in fasting recipes.

Let’s get to work! Here’s how to prepare this pea dish step by step.

Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 bell pepper
- 6 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a stronger flavor)
- Water (about 1 liter)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 kg of frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (for added flavor)
- A bunch of fresh dill (for a refreshing taste)

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Start by peeling the onion, then wash it well under cold running water. Chop the onion finely so that it softens easily during cooking. Peel the carrot, wash it, and slice it into rounds. Wash the celery stalk and slice it into rounds as well. Remove the seeds and stem from the bell pepper, wash it, and cut it into thick strips. These vegetables will form the base of our dish and will add a delicious aroma.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential as it will release the onion's aroma, giving the dish a rich flavor. Add the carrot, celery, and bell pepper, then sprinkle a little salt. Mix the vegetables well and add a cup of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables steam for 10 minutes. This process will help the vegetables retain their nutrients and become more tender.

Step 3: Add the peas
After the vegetables have steamed, add the frozen peas (there’s no need to thaw them beforehand) and stir gently. Add enough water to cover all the ingredients. At this point, you can also add other spices, such as pepper or paprika, according to your taste. Let the dish simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the peas are well cooked.

Step 4: Finishing touches
Once the peas are cooked, add the tomato paste and let the dish simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors. Taste the dish and add salt to your preference. Finally, add the fresh dill, washed and finely chopped, which will bring an extra freshness to the dish.

Serving suggestion:
This pea dish pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta. You can add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for an even richer taste. It is also delicious served with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Variations:
If you want to experiment with the recipe, you can add other vegetables like potatoes or zucchini, or you can replace the peas with green beans. Additionally, you can turn this dish into a main course by adding tofu or pre-cooked chicken.

Nutritional benefits:
Peas are an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals, making them a filling and healthy food. The vegetables used in this recipe contribute to a balanced diet, being low in calories, thus suitable for those looking to maintain their weight.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but the cooking time will be shorter. Make sure they are well cooked, but do not overboil them to keep their crunchy texture.

2. How can I store the pea dish for the next day?
Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be consumed the next day, but it’s best to reheat it on low heat to avoid altering the flavor.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, made without any animal-derived ingredients.

So, with a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you have managed to prepare a delicious pea dish that will delight family and friends! I encourage you to try this recipe and put your personal touch on it. Enjoy your meal!