Peas Kulesh Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Russia

Peas Kulesh

Peas Kulesh Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Russia
Region / culture: Russia | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 | Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Peas Kulesh
Peas Kulesh

Peas Kulesh is a traditional Russian dish that is hearty, nutritious, and delicious. This dish is perfect for a cold winter day or any time you are craving a comforting meal.

History

Kulesh has been a staple in Russian cuisine for centuries. It was originally a simple peasant dish made with whatever ingredients were available, such as grains, vegetables, and sometimes meat. Peas Kulesh is a variation of this dish that highlights the sweetness and earthiness of peas.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Soak the peas in water for 2 hours, then boil them until they are very soft.
  2. Mash the peas until they form a puree.
  3. Add well-washed millet and boil until the millet is cooked.
  4. Finely chop the onion and fry it in oil.
  5. Add the fried onion and salt to taste to the kulesh.
  6. Serve hot.

Variations

  • Add cooked chicken or beef for a meatier version of this dish.
  • Use different grains like barley or buckwheat instead of millet groats.
  • Add carrots, celery, or other vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the peas before cooking helps them cook faster and more evenly.

- Be sure to mash the peas well to create a smooth puree.

- Frying the onions adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

- Adjust the salt to taste, as different brands of peas may vary in saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Peas Kulesh hot with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling, mashing, and frying are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen peas instead of fresh peas, and any type of oil for frying the onions.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the peas and millet ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Peas Kulesh in a rustic bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and crisp white wine or a refreshing herbal tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Peas Kulesh contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Peas Kulesh is a good source of carbohydrates, with the millet groats and peas providing complex carbohydrates that give you sustained energy.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with only a small amount of oil used for frying the onions.

Proteins

Peas are a good source of plant-based protein, making this dish a satisfying and filling meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Peas are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. Millet groats also provide essential nutrients like magnesium and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

Peas Kulesh is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Peas Kulesh is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. Packed with nutrients and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Ukraine. My grandmother, may she rest in peace, was the one who first introduced me to the delicious dish called Peas Kulesh.

I remember it like it was yesterday. It was a hot summer day, and my grandmother had been working in the garden all morning. As the sun began to set, she came into the kitchen with a basket full of fresh peas and a twinkle in her eye. She told me that she was going to teach me how to make Peas Kulesh, a traditional Ukrainian dish that has been passed down through our family for generations.

As we sat at the kitchen table, my grandmother began to show me how to prepare the ingredients. She explained that Kulesh is a simple peasant dish, made with just a few basic ingredients - peas, potatoes, onions, and a handful of herbs and spices. She showed me how to shuck the peas, peel and chop the potatoes, and dice the onions with precision and care.

As we cooked together, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood and the recipes she had learned from her mother and grandmother. She told me about the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients and cooking with love and patience. I listened intently, soaking up every word like a sponge.

After a few hours of simmering on the stove, the aroma of the Peas Kulesh filled the kitchen. My mouth watered as my grandmother ladled the steaming stew into bowls and sprinkled fresh dill on top. We sat down at the table and dug in, savoring each bite and enjoying the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal made with love.

From that day on, Peas Kulesh became a staple in our household. Whenever the peas were in season, we would gather in the kitchen and cook together, laughing and sharing stories as we prepared the dish. It became a tradition that I cherished, a way of connecting with my heritage and honoring the memory of my grandmother.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe for Peas Kulesh, adding my own twists and variations to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition and the love that my grandmother instilled in me.

As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, stirring a pot of Peas Kulesh on the stove, I can't help but smile at the memories that this dish brings back. It is more than just a recipe - it is a connection to my past, a link to my roots, and a reminder of the love and wisdom that has been passed down through the generations.

And so, as I take a spoonful of the steaming stew and savor the flavors that dance on my tongue, I am grateful for the gift that my grandmother gave me all those years ago - the gift of Peas Kulesh, and the gift of a love that transcends time and space.

Categories

| Millet Recipes | Onion Recipes | Pea Recipes | Russian Recipes | Russian Vegetarian | Slavic Recipes |

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