Rice with Peas

Rice with Peas Recipe from Italy | Ingredients and Steps

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

Introduction

Rice with peas is a classic dish that is simple yet flavorful. The combination of fluffy rice and sweet peas makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a larger meal.

History

Rice with peas is a popular dish in many cultures around the world. It is often served as a side dish or as a main course. The combination of rice and peas is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins.

Ingredients

2 cups of white rice
3 tbsp of olive oil
1 white onion, chopped
2 bay leaves
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
1 cup of green peas
4 cups of chicken stock
1 tbsp of chopped parsley

How to prepare

Wash the rice and let it soak for half an hour, then drain it.
Heat oil in a pot and sauté the onion until it becomes translucent.
Add bay leaves, salt, pepper, and rice. Cook until the rice grains become opaque, stirring occasionally.
Add peas and stir until the peas are well coated in oil. Then, add chicken stock and bring it to a boil.
Cover the pot and simmer over low heat until the rice is tender.

Variations

Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of the dish.
Stir in some cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch and ensures that the grains cook evenly.

- Sautéing the onion before adding the rice adds depth of flavor to the dish.

- Stirring the rice occasionally while cooking helps to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Adding the peas towards the end of cooking ensures that they retain their vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Rice with peas can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and flavorful meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion before adding the rice helps to develop the flavors of the dish.

- Simmering the rice in chicken stock infuses it with rich, savory flavor.

- Covering the pot while the rice cooks helps to trap steam and ensure that the grains cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute frozen peas for fresh peas if they are not in season.

- Use vegetable oil or butter instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice with peas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh and vibrant finish. Serve it in a colorful bowl or on a decorative platter for an eye-catching presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Rice with peas pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of rice with peas contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dish that is suitable for a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

One serving of rice with peas contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

One serving of rice with peas contains approximately 8 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come primarily from the olive oil used for cooking. Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

One serving of rice with peas contains approximately 6 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice with peas is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Peas are particularly rich in vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, if you have specific allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients carefully.

Summary

Rice with peas is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Summary

Rice with peas is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, it is a healthy and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. As we chatted and sipped on cups of tea, Maria suddenly disappeared into the pantry and returned with a small, weathered recipe card in hand.

"Have you ever tried making rice with peas, my dear?" she asked, a twinkle in her eye.

I shook my head, curious about this new dish. Maria explained that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, originating from her grandmother who hailed from Italy. She told me stories of how her grandmother would make this simple yet delicious dish for her family, using only the freshest ingredients from their garden.

Intrigued, I asked Maria if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. With a smile, she handed me the card and began to guide me through the steps. As I watched her expertly measure out the ingredients and stir the pot, I knew that I had stumbled upon a true gem.

The aroma of the rice cooking with the peas filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When Maria finally dished out a steaming plate of the rice with peas for us to enjoy, I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both satisfying and nostalgic.

From that moment on, rice with peas became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought of Maria and her grandmother, grateful for the gift of their recipe.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its simplicity and flavor. It has become a part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that I am proud to call my own.

As I sit here now, in my own cozy kitchen, stirring a pot of rice with peas, I can't help but smile at the memories that this recipe holds. It reminds me of the power of food to connect us to our past, to our loved ones, and to our heritage. And for that, I am forever grateful.

So here's to Maria, her grandmother, and all those who have shared their recipes with me over the years. May their flavors continue to inspire and nourish me for many more years to come. And may the simple joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones never fade away.