Pea stew, or “Erbseneintopf” as it’s known in German, is a classic and hearty dish that is deeply loved by many. This comforting, rustic stew combines a variety of wholesome ingredients, including vegetables, smoked bacon, tender chicken, and split peas. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cold weather or for when you need a meal that’s filling and satisfying.
The best part about pea stew is its versatility. It can be adapted based on what you have on hand, and the flavor improves with each passing day. The stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you are cooking for yourself, a small family, or a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
This recipe involves slow cooking and layering of flavors, making it a great dish to prepare in advance. The combination of earthy split peas, tender chicken, and smoky bacon creates a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 leek stalk
- 2 medium-sized onions
- 400g of waxy potatoes (ideal for stews)
- 170g of smoked belly bacon
- 20g of pork lard (or cooking fat)
- 400g of split peas (dried)
- 300g of chicken meat (chicken breast or thighs)
- 150g of celeriac (celery root)
- 150g of carrots
- 1 heaping teaspoon of marjoram
- 2 sprigs of parsley (for garnish)
- 2.5 liters of water
- 8 heaping teaspoons of vegetable bouillon (granulated)
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Preparation:
1. Start by Melting the Lard: Begin by melting the pork lard in a large pot over low heat. This fat will add richness to the stew and enhance the flavors of the ingredients. Once the lard has melted, add the diced smoked belly bacon. Allow the bacon to render its fat and become slightly crispy. This will add a deep smoky flavor to the dish, which is essential for a traditional pea stew.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables: Next, add the finely chopped onions and chicken meat cut into small cubes (about 2×2 cm pieces) to the pot. Stir the mixture and sauté it until the onions turn translucent and the chicken starts to cook through. After this, add the diced carrots, celeriac, and leek, which will provide a fresh, earthy flavor to the stew. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir everything together for a minute or two, ensuring the vegetables are lightly sautéed. Be careful not to cook them for too long, as there is a risk of burning the ingredients at this stage.
3. Adding the Water and Peas: Once the vegetables have been sautéed, it’s time to add the liquid. Pour in one liter of water, and stir the mixture thoroughly to combine. Add the split peas, stirring them in well, followed by the remaining water. Bring the entire mixture to a boil over high heat. As the stew starts to simmer, add the vegetable bouillon granules (one teaspoon per quarter liter of liquid), along with the marjoram. Marjoram will add a subtle herbal note to the stew, complementing the earthiness of the peas and vegetables. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the stew to simmer gently. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, ensuring all the ingredients are softening and absorbing the flavors.
4. Adding Potatoes: After about 24 minutes of simmering, add the diced waxy potatoes to the pot. These potatoes will break down a little during cooking, thickening the stew and making it even more hearty. Stir everything together, and let it continue to simmer for another 30 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally, especially toward the end of the cooking time, as the stew can stick to the bottom of the pot as it thickens.
5. Final Seasoning and Garnish: Once the potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning. Add a pinch of white pepper and salt to taste, keeping in mind that the bacon and bouillon have already contributed some saltiness. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. The parsley also provides a slight herbal contrast to the richness of the stew.
6. Adjusting the Bacon Amount: If you enjoy a heartier, more flavorful stew, you can increase the amount of bacon. The recipe calls for 170g, but you can add up to 200g of smoked belly bacon if you prefer a stronger bacon flavor. This will make the stew even richer and more savory, so feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Pea stew is best served hot, especially on a chilly day when you need something to warm you up. It pairs wonderfully with rustic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the rich broth. A dollop of sour cream on top can also add a tangy contrast to the stew’s flavors.
Why This Pea Stew is Loved:
This pea stew is beloved for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly filling, making it the perfect comfort food for family meals or gatherings. The smoked bacon gives it a depth of flavor that is hard to resist, while the chicken adds a tender, protein-rich element to the dish. The combination of vegetables, including carrots, celeriac, and leek, provides a beautiful balance of flavors that complement the split peas perfectly. The slow simmering process allows all the ingredients to meld together into a harmonious stew that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Another great feature of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the quantities of ingredients based on your personal preferences. For example, if you prefer a meatier stew, you can increase the amount of chicken or bacon. Additionally, the recipe can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a day or two. In fact, like many stews, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop and deepen.
Tips for Success:
- Use a Heavy Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for this recipe, as it ensures even cooking and prevents the stew from sticking to the bottom.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allowing the stew to cook slowly over low heat is crucial for developing the rich flavors that make pea stew so special. Take your time and enjoy the process!
- Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to make the stew even more nutrient-dense, consider adding other vegetables such as parsnips, celery, or even a handful of spinach at the end of cooking.
- Freeze Leftovers: Pea stew freezes well, so if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container for a future meal. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Conclusion:
Pea stew is a dish that brings comfort, nourishment, and satisfaction to any table. With its rich flavor and hearty ingredients, it’s no wonder that this recipe is always a favorite. Whether you’re making it for yourself or preparing a family meal, this pea stew will surely become a go-to recipe that’s enjoyed time and time again.
