Discover the vibrant flavors of Lebanon with our delightful recipe for Bazella Lebanese Stewed Peas! This hearty dish, brimming with fresh peas, aromatic spices, and the warmth of olive oil, is not just a meal—it's an experience that transports you straight to the heart of Lebanese cuisine. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, Bazella is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Dive into this recipe and learn how to create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Lebanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Allow the tomatoes to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the fresh or frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the tomato base.
- Sprinkle allspice, salt, and pepper over the pea mixture. Gently stir to ensure the seasonings are well incorporated.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the peas simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the peas for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped mint leaves before serving.
Tips
- Choose Fresh or Frozen Peas: While fresh peas offer the best flavor, frozen peas are a convenient alternative that still provide excellent taste and texture. If using fresh peas, make sure they are tender and sweet.
- Sautéing Technique: When sautéing the onions, ensure they are cooked until translucent but not browned. This will create a sweet base for the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Allspice adds a warm, aromatic touch to the dish, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Simmering Time: Keep an eye on the peas as they simmer. You want them tender but not mushy; check for doneness after 15 minutes.
- Garnishing: Fresh mint is a classic garnish for Bazella that adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Don’t skip this step for an extra pop of color and taste!
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or over a bed of fluffy rice, making it a versatile addition to your meal.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
