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!