Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Sweet green peas stewed with vegetables make for a comforting and hearty dish. This Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is not just delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. With its vibrant flavors and healthful ingredients, this stew stands out as a nourishing vegetarian option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This stew requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil creates a depth of flavor that is sure to impress.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with various accompaniments like crusty bread or feta cheese.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, this stew is both satisfying and good for you.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the freezer for a quick meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful stew, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium-sized cooking pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium-sized cooking pot: Essential for simmering the stew evenly without overcrowding the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing of flavors.
• Chopping board & Knife: Crucial for safely preparing your vegetables into the right sizes for even cooking.

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
• 400 ml hot water or vegetable stock
• feta cheese (to serve with)

How to Make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

Heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized cooking pot over moderate heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the minced red onion and chopped garlic to the pot. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the potatoes, zucchini, peas, and carrots to the pot. Raise the heat to medium-high. Cook for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for one minute to enhance its flavor.

Step 5: Add Fresh Tomatoes

Incorporate the diced fresh tomatoes into the mixture along with sea salt to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 6: Pour in Water or Stock

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

Step 7: Simmer Stew

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 40 to 50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender enough for your liking.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Stir in the remaining olive oil and finely chopped dill. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9: Finish Cooking

Cook partly covered over moderate heat for another 10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated but there’s still oil left in the pot.

Step 10: Let Stand

Remove from heat and let stand inside the cooking pot for about 15 minutes before serving.

Step 11: Serve

Serve warm with a generous piece of feta cheese on top alongside some crusty bread! Enjoy your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew!

How to Serve Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Serving Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew can elevate your dining experience. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, there are plenty of options to enhance this delicious dish.

With Feta Cheese

• Crumble fresh feta cheese on top for a creamy contrast that complements the stewed vegetables beautifully.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with a warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors and juices of the stew, making each bite even more satisfying.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle extra chopped dill or parsley for added freshness and a burst of color that makes the dish visually appealing.

Served with Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch that balances the richness of the olive oil.

Paired with a Simple Salad

• A light green salad with cucumbers and tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, enhancing your meal’s overall experience.

How to Perfect Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

To ensure your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is as tasty as possible, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your vegetables, the more vibrant and flavorful your stew will be.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste throughout cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 15 minutes after cooking helps meld all the flavors together.
• Experiment with herbs: While dill is traditional, feel free to try other herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• Control thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some peas or potatoes against the pot’s side to create a creamier texture.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Pairing sides with your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad
   A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil and lemon juice.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness and complement the stew nicely.

3. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice cooked in vegetable broth with herbs adds a nice texture and absorbs the delicious sauce from the stew.

4. Grilled Pita Bread
   Warm pita bread brushed with olive oil makes an excellent accompaniment for dipping into the stew.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These tangy rice-and-herb-stuffed grape leaves offer a delightful Mediterranean flavor that pairs well with this dish.

6. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs serve as a satisfying crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft peas in the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen vegetables may result in a less vibrant stew. Always opt for fresh when possible for the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and adjust cooking times to ensure they remain tender yet firm.
• Underseasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can leave the stew bland. Always taste as you go, and adjust seasoning accordingly for a well-rounded flavor.
• Neglecting Olive Oil: Olive oil is key in this recipe for richness and flavor. Don’t skimp; use the full amount specified to enhance your stew.
• Not Letting It Rest: Serving immediately can mean missing out on deeper flavors. Allowing the stew to stand enhances its taste, so be patient!
• Ignoring Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh dill or a side of crusty bread elevates your meal. Don’t forget these finishing touches that add flavor and texture!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until hot, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew:

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peas work great if fresh ones are not available. They will cook quickly and retain their sweetness.

What can I substitute for dill?

If you don’t have dill, try substituting with parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this stew spicier?

To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers during cooking based on your spice preference.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers, spinach, or any other veggies you enjoy.

Is it okay to omit feta cheese?

Yes, if you prefer a vegan option or want it dairy-free, simply leave out the feta cheese while serving.

How does this dish fit into meal prep?

This stew is excellent for meal prep as it stores well and tastes even better after sitting overnight!

Final Thoughts

Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is not only delicious but also versatile—perfect as a main course or side dish. Its rich flavors from fresh ingredients create comfort food that everyone will love. Feel free to experiment with different veggies or herbs according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to give this recipe a try!