Peas with Tomatoes

Peas with Tomatoes Recipe from Romania | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Peas with tomatoes is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the tanginess of tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or as a side dish for a special occasion.

History

Peas with tomatoes is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in many cultures around the world. The combination of peas and tomatoes is not only flavorful but also provides a good balance of nutrients.

Ingredients

2 lb (1 kg) of peas
1 tbsp of butter
4-5 tomatoes
1 onion
1 tsp of sugar (optional)
1 tsp of chopped dill
salt

How to prepare

In a pan, fry the onions in butter until they turn yellow.
Next, add the peas, peeled and seeded chopped tomatoes, sugar, salt, and dill.
Allow the mixture to simmer until the peas are cooked.
Ensure that there is only a small amount of liquid remaining.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
Stir in some cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh peas for the best flavor and texture.

- You can add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to customize the dish to your liking.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Peas with tomatoes can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a main dish with rice or bread. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the peas until they are tender but still have a slight bite to them.

- Simmer the mixture gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen peas instead of fresh peas if fresh peas are not available.

- Olive oil can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Peas with tomatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for a pop of color. Serve the peas with tomatoes in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also goes well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of peas with tomatoes contains approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Peas with tomatoes is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is low in fat, with only 2 grams of fat per serving. The butter used in the recipe adds a rich flavor without adding too much fat.

Proteins

Peas are a good source of plant-based protein, with each serving of peas with tomatoes providing around 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Peas with tomatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients used.

Summary

Peas with tomatoes is a nutritious dish that is low in fat and calories but high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and balanced meal.

Summary

Peas with tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish that is packed with nutrients. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of peas with tomatoes in this delicious and nutritious dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables filled the air.

Margaret greeted me with a warm hug and a big smile. "I'm so glad you're here, dear," she said. "I have a new recipe to share with you today."

She handed me a handwritten recipe card with the title "Peas with Tomatoes" written in elegant script. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth began to water. I had never tried this dish before, but I could already imagine the flavors melding together in a symphony of taste.

Margaret explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She shared with me the story of how her grandmother used to make this dish for special occasions, using only the freshest ingredients from her garden.

I was captivated by the nostalgia and tradition behind the recipe, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it for myself. Margaret graciously offered to teach me, and we spent the afternoon cooking together in her cozy kitchen.

We started by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Next, we added in diced tomatoes and a splash of broth, allowing the flavors to meld together into a rich and savory sauce.

As the sauce simmered on the stove, Margaret showed me how to blanch fresh peas and add them to the skillet, allowing them to cook until tender and vibrant green. The colors and textures of the dish were coming together beautifully, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

After a final sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, we plated the Peas with Tomatoes and sat down to enjoy our creation. The flavors were even better than I had imagined – the sweetness of the peas paired perfectly with the tangy tomatoes and aromatic herbs.

As we savored each bite, Margaret and I shared stories of our own grandmothers and the recipes they had passed down to us. It was a beautiful moment of connection and tradition, and I felt grateful to have learned this recipe from such a dear friend.

From that day on, Peas with Tomatoes became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think of Margaret and her grandmother, and the love and memories that were infused into every bite.

Years passed, and I continued to make Peas with Tomatoes, sharing the recipe with friends and loved ones who were always eager to try a taste. It became a beloved tradition in my own family, a dish that would always bring us together around the table.

And so, the recipe for Peas with Tomatoes has become more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions – it is a story of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we love. I am grateful for the day I first saw that recipe card in Margaret's kitchen, for it has brought me countless moments of happiness and connection ever since.