Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Sweet green peas, stewed along with carrots, tomatoes, zucchinis, potatoes, dill, and plenty of olive oil make up the delightful Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew. This dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it perfect for any occasion—from a cozy family dinner to a festive gathering. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients are sure to impress your guests while providing a wholesome meal that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, this stew is as good for you as it is delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a flavorful meal on the table without hassle.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it pairs well with bread or cheese for added flavor.
• Comfort Food: The warm, hearty stew brings comfort and satisfaction, ideal for chilly evenings or rainy days.
• Vegetarian Delight: This recipe is entirely plant-based (excluding feta), making it suitable for anyone looking to eat more vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large cooking pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large cooking pot: Essential for simmering the stew evenly and accommodating all the ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while allowing you to mix ingredients thoroughly.

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Ingredients

Sweet green peas, stewed along with carrots, tomatoes, zucchinis, potatoes, dill, and plenty of olive oil. A truly healthy and delicious vegetarian meal.

For the Stew:

• 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium-sized (120 grams) red onion (minced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 700 grams (1.5 pounds) green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 500 grams (1.1 pounds) potatoes (peeled and cut into 3-4 cm (1¼-1½-inch) pieces)
• 3-4 very small baby or small zucchinis (cut into 3 cm (1¼-inch) thick pieces)
• 2 medium (130 grams) carrots (cut into 1 cm (⅓-inch) thick slices)
• 3 teaspoons tomato paste
• 2 medium-large (400 grams) ripe tomatoes (diced (skin, pulp, and all))
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped)
• sea salt to taste
• 400 ml hot water or vegetable stock
• feta cheese to serve with

How to Make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Step 1: Heat the Oil

1. Heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cooking pot over moderate heat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add the minced onion and chopped garlic.
2. Sauté until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Incorporate the potatoes, zucchini, peas, and carrots.
2. Raise heat to medium-high.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Mix Tomato Paste

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Add Fresh Tomatoes

1. Add diced fresh tomatoes.
2. Season with sea salt and ground pepper to taste.
3. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 6: Pour in Stock

1. Pour in hot water or vegetable stock.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Simmer

1. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
2. Simmer for about 40 to 50 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 8: Finish with Dill

1. Stir in remaining olive oil and fresh dill.
2. Taste for seasoning adjustments if necessary.

Step 9: Final Cooking Stage

1. Cook partly covered over moderate heat for about 10 minutes until there’s mostly oil left in the pot.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving

1. Allow the stew to stand for about 15 minutes inside the cooking pot before serving.

Serving Suggestion

Serve warm alongside feta cheese and crusty bread for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Serving Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is a delightful experience that can be elevated with a few simple ideas. This hearty dish pairs well with various accompaniments, making it suitable for any meal.

Pair with Feta Cheese

• Feta cheese adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the stew beautifully. Crumble some on top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Choose a rustic loaf or whole-grain bread for added texture.

Serve with Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad made with greens and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew. Incorporate ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a Mediterranean touch.

Add Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast to the stew’s sweetness. Consider serving pickled cucumbers or radishes on the side for crunch and flavor.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges enhance the dish’s flavors. Squeeze some juice over your portion to brighten up the taste while adding zest.

How to Perfect Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

To ensure your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your stew significantly.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your vegetables during cooking; adjust time based on their size and freshness to get them perfectly tender.
• Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs like parsley or mint for additional flavors that complement dill.
• Control Olive Oil Amount: This recipe uses generous olive oil; feel free to adjust according to your preference while ensuring enough remains for flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to rest after cooking helps meld the flavors together, creating a richer taste when served.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your stew before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Pairing side dishes with Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Greek Village Salad: A vibrant mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and olives drizzled with olive oil.
2. Roasted Eggplant Dip: Smoky eggplant blended with garlic and tahini creates a flavorful spread perfect for dipping crusty bread.
3. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Assorted seasonal vegetables grilled until tender add a smoky flavor that complements the stew.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish infused with herbs provides a nutritious base, adding protein and fiber.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These vine leaves filled with rice and herbs offer a traditional touch that pairs well with peas.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with chickpeas, herbs, and lemon zest brings a refreshing element to your meal.
7. Olive Tapenade: A robust olive spread served alongside the stew offers rich umami notes that enhance each bite.
8. Baked Potatoes with Herbs: Simple baked potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs make for a comforting companion to the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale ingredients: Always use fresh peas and vegetables. This enhances flavor and texture in your stew.
• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté the onion and garlic can lead to a bland taste. Take the time to cook them until soft for better depth of flavor.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust salt or pepper can result in an unbalanced dish. Always season to your preference before serving.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the stew too long can make the veggies mushy. Aim for tender but still vibrant vegetables for the best texture.
• Ignoring resting time: Serving immediately misses out on the blending of flavors that happens when the stew rests. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew.

Can I use frozen peas in Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly fine. Just add them directly without thawing for convenience.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh dill?

You can use dried dill or substitute with other herbs like parsley or thyme if you prefer.

How can I make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers during cooking can give your stew an extra kick!

Is it possible to make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn’t contain any animal products apart from feta cheese which is optional.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is not only healthy but also versatile and delicious. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting dish with crusty bread or as a side dish at your next meal!