Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Sweet green peas, stewed along with carrots, tomatoes, zucchinis, and potatoes, create a delightful mix in Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew. This dish is not only healthy but also a perfect option for family dinners or gatherings. Its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation make it an appealing choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Delight: Packed with vegetables, this stew is a great source of vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish even on busy nights.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it pairs well with various proteins.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh produce and herbs brings robust flavor without the need for heavy seasoning.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A perfect choice for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large cooking pot: Ideal for simmering the stew evenly without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space to chop all your ingredients efficiently.

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 Base

• 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium-sized (120 grams) red onion (minced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)

For the Vegetables

• 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)

For Flavoring

• 3 teaspoons tomato paste
• 2 medium-large (400 grams) ripe tomatoes (diced)
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped)
• sea salt

For Cooking

• 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

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

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add minced onion and finely chopped garlic to the pot. Cook until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Introduce the potatoes, zucchinis, peas, and carrots. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Add Fresh Tomatoes

Add diced fresh tomatoes along with some sea salt. Cook for another 2 minutes until tomatoes soften.

Step 6: Pour in Liquid

Carefully pour in hot water or vegetable stock.

Step 7: Simmer

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 40 to 50 minutes or until all vegetables are tender according to your preference.

Step 8: Finish with Dill

Once cooked, stir in the remaining olive oil and chopped dill. Taste for additional seasoning if necessary.

Step 9: Final Cooking

Cook partly covered over moderate heat for another 10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated leaving mostly oil behind.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving

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

Step 11: Serve

Serve hot alongside a big piece of feta cheese and some crusty bread! Enjoy your traditional Greek green peas stew!

How to Serve Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Serving Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is an opportunity to enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread makes a perfect companion. Use it to scoop up the stew or enjoy it on the side for a hearty meal.

Add Feta Cheese

• Top your stew with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy contrast. Its creamy texture complements the dish beautifully.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for extra zing.

Accompany with Rice or Quinoa

• Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds heartiness and absorbs the delicious stew juices well.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle extra fresh dill or parsley on top right before serving for added flavor and color. This enhances both presentation and taste.

Enjoy with Yogurt

• A dollop of plain yogurt can add creaminess and balance out the flavors. It’s a refreshing option that pairs well with the stew.

How to Perfect Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

To make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peas, ripe tomatoes, and vibrant herbs will enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference for a well-seasoned dish.
• Cook Slowly: Allowing the stew to simmer gently helps develop richer flavors. Don’t rush this process.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and variety.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or batch cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Greek Salad
   A classic mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil offers a refreshing side that complements the stew’s richness.

2. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying texture contrast while enhancing the meal’s heartiness.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add smokiness and depth to your dinner plate.

4. Olive Tapenade
   A spread made from olives and capers brings salty notes that pair beautifully with the stew’s savory flavors.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These small bites filled with rice and herbs offer a traditional touch that resonates well with Greek cuisine.

6. Couscous Salad
   Lightly flavored couscous mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and vegetables provides a fluffy complement without overpowering the main dish.

7. Hummus Platter
   A colorful platter of hummus served with fresh veggies or pita chips adds creaminess and another layer of flavor to your meal.

8. Spiced Chickpeas
   Crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with cumin or paprika offer a crunchy snack that pairs well alongside your comforting stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common mistakes for a perfect Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew.

• Skipping the olive oil: Olive oil is essential for flavor and richness. Do not reduce the amount suggested in the recipe.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on them, especially during the simmering phase.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in a bland stew. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using old peas: Fresh or well-frozen peas deliver the best flavor. Check your pea quality to ensure a tasty stew.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the stew sit after cooking allows flavors to meld. Don’t skip this step for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers 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 bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew?

Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is a hearty dish made with green peas, potatoes, zucchini, carrots, and fresh herbs, simmered in olive oil.

Can I make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew vegan?

Yes! This stew is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal products.

How can I customize Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference. Spices like cumin or coriander can also enhance flavor.

What should I serve with Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew?

Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. Feta cheese can be added for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients while customizing it to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies!