Stewed Peas with Pancetta – A Flavorful Side Dish Recipe
Discover how to prepare a delightful side dish of stewed peas with pancetta, a classic combination that brings rich, savory flavors to your table. This dish is perfect for complementing any main course, offering a balance of sweetness from fresh peas and the smoky depth of pancetta. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe designed to serve four people.
Ingredients
Below is a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh peas (shelled) | 2 kg |
| Smoked pancetta | 100 g |
| Water | 150 g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed (q.b.) |
| Shallot | 1 |
| Fine salt | As needed (q.b.) |
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of stewed peas with pancetta:
| Nutrient | Approx. Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Instructions
Follow these carefully crafted steps to prepare stewed peas with pancetta:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by shelling the fresh peas. Take your time to ensure the peas are clean and free from any debris. |
| 2 | Move on to the pancetta: slice it into thin slices, then cut those slices into small strips. |
| 3 | Finely chop the shallot to create a flavorful base for the dish. |
| 4 | Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Sauté the chopped shallot for about 2 minutes, adding a pinch of fine salt if desired. |
| 5 | Add the pancetta strips to the skillet and cook them for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their smoky aroma and become slightly crispy. |
| 6 | Toss the shelled peas into the skillet and mix well to coat them evenly with the pancetta and shallot mixture. |
| 7 | Pour in the water to create a gentle steaming effect. Stir, then reduce the heat to low. |
| 8 | Adjust the seasoning with fine salt to taste, keeping in mind that pancetta naturally adds a salty flavor to the dish. |
| 9 | Cover the skillet and allow the peas to cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but not mushy. |
| 10 | Once cooked, turn off the heat. Transfer the stewed peas with pancetta to a serving dish and serve immediately. |
Serving Suggestions
Stewed peas with pancetta pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple pasta dish. Serve them warm as a side dish or incorporate them into a larger meal for a burst of hearty, comforting flavors.
Enjoy the vibrant colors and rich taste of this recipe as you share it with family and friends. Bon appétit!
