Romanian Green Pea Stew (Mâncare de Mazăre)
A delicious, hearty, and traditional Romanian dish, perfect as a main or side dish.
Ingredients:
- 450g green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 400g tomato puree (14 oz)
- 2 tbsp sunflower oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500ml vegetable or chicken broth (about 2 cups)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 tsp sugar (balances acidity from tomatoes)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Sauté the vegetables: In a pot, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the garlic and carrot, stirring for another 2 minutes.
2️⃣ Add tomato puree & spices: Stir in the tomato puree, bay leaf, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
3️⃣ Simmer with broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, add the potatoes (if using), and let the stew simmer for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4️⃣ Add peas & finish cooking: Add the green peas and sugar, then cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the peas are tender but not mushy.
5️⃣ Final touch: Remove from heat, stir in chopped fresh dill, and adjust seasoning to taste. Remove bay leaf.
6️⃣ Serve & enjoy! Enjoy hot with fresh bread or polenta for a traditional Romanian experience.
Notes & Tips:
✔ For a richer taste, replace sunflower oil with butter or olive oil.
✔ For a meat version, add diced chicken or smoked sausages in Step 1.
✔ For a creamier texture, mash some of the potatoes before serving.
✔ Pairs well with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Makes 4 Servings)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Carbs: ~30g
- Protein: ~6g
- Fats: ~5g
- Fiber: ~7g
Health Benefits:
✅ Rich in fiber – Great for digestion.
✅ High in vitamins – Peas provide vitamin C, K, and folate.
✅ Low in fat – A light yet filling meal.
Q&A:
❓ Can I freeze it?
✔ Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
❓ Can I use canned peas?
✔ You can, but add them at the very end and simmer for only 2 minutes to prevent mushiness.
Would you like a side dish suggestion or variations? 😊