ADVERTISEMENT
### **How to Make Greek Peas and Potato Stew**
Making Greek Peas and Potato Stew is straightforward and easy. Follow these simple steps to create this flavorful dish.
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**
Start by preparing all of your ingredients. Peel and cube the potatoes, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and either grate or chop the tomatoes. If you’re using fresh peas, remove them from their pods. If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. This will help ensure the dish comes together quickly.
#### **Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
#### **Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spices**
Next, add the grated or chopped tomatoes to the pot along with the dried oregano, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. If the mixture looks too dry, you can add a small splash of water.
#### **Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Broth**
Once the tomatoes are cooked down, add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir everything together. Add the vegetable broth (or water if you don’t have broth), and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are almost tender.
#### **Step 5: Add the Peas**
Once the potatoes are nearly done, add the peas to the pot and stir. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, until the peas are tender and everything is well combined. If the stew looks too dry at any point, add a little more water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
#### **Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve**
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If you’d like a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, you can add a teaspoon of sugar at this point.
Once the stew is fully cooked, remove it from the heat. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side, which can be squeezed over the dish for added brightness.
### **Tips for Making the Perfect Greek Peas and Potato Stew**
– **Use quality olive oil**: Since olive oil is the main fat in this dish, its flavor plays an essential role in the overall taste. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
– **Adjust the texture**: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork to create a creamy texture. If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add more broth or water.
– **Flavor development**: Let the stew sit for a bit after cooking, as the flavors tend to develop even more as it rests. It can be stored in the fridge for a day or two to allow the flavors to marry.
– **Vegan adaptation**: This dish is already vegan-friendly, but for a more robust flavor, you can add a bit of lemon juice to brighten it up or even top it with crumbled feta cheese (for non-vegan versions).
– **Serving ideas**: Serve your Greek Peas and Potato Stew with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice for a more filling meal.
### **Variations of Greek Peas and Potato Stew**
As with most traditional dishes, there are variations to this Greek classic that make it even more versatile. Here are a few ideas:
1. **Add Other Vegetables**: You can add other vegetables to the stew to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Carrots, zucchini, or even spinach are great additions to this dish.
2. **Incorporate Protein**: To make the dish heartier, you can add protein, such as grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas. For a more substantial meal, adding chickpeas can also make the dish more filling.
3. **Spicy Variation**: If you like a bit of spice, try adding a chopped red chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stew when sautéing the onions and garlic.
4. **Tomato Paste**: For a richer tomato flavor, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste alongside the fresh tomatoes. This adds depth and intensifies the flavor of the base.
### **Conclusion**
Greek Peas and Potato Stew (*Arakas Laderos*) is a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Made with simple ingredients like peas, potatoes, tomatoes, and olive oil, this stew is a hearty meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you serve it on a weeknight or at a gathering with friends and family, this dish will surely become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire.
Its rich flavors, easy preparation, and ability to be customized to suit different tastes make it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is as healthy as it is flavorful. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a taste of Greece in the comfort of your own home!
