Hearty Peas and Carrots Stew: Easy Recipe

Warm your kitchen and soul with the inviting aroma of a classic dish – Peas and Carrots Stew. This Lebanese-inspired recipe strikes the perfect balance between rustic simplicity and rich, developed flavors. Each comforting spoonful reveals tender beef cubes, sweet peas, and carrots bathed in an aromatic tomato-based broth infused with traditional Middle Eastern spices like the iconic 7 Spice blend. The magic of this stew lies in its ability to offer both heartiness and freshness in one delightful bowl.

Originating from the heart of Lebanese home cooking, Peas and Carrots Stew, also known as Bazella w Riz, is a dish that brings families together around the dinner table. The slow-cooked beef, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant seasonings create a harmony of tastes and textures that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or seeking a comforting meal that speaks to the soul, this stew is a perfect introduction to the warmth and flavors of Lebanese comfort food. Embrace the tradition, savor the flavors, and let Peas and Carrots Stew fill your home with the essence of homemade goodness.

Quick Benefits

• Balanced flavors: The stew strikes a perfect balance between hearty richness from tender beef and fresh sweetness from peas and carrots.
• Aromatic complexity: The blend of garlic, cilantro, and 7 Spice creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Make-ahead convenience: The stew actually improves in flavor when prepared a day in advance, making it a great option for meal prepping or busy days.
• Cultural authenticity: This dish offers a taste of Lebanese comfort food, introducing Middle Eastern flavors in an accessible way.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Peas and Carrots Stew: Easy Recipe Recipe

• Balanced Flavors: The stew strikes a perfect balance of hearty beef, sweet peas, and earthy carrots, all complemented by the aromatic 7 Spice blend.
• Cultural Authenticity: Experience Lebanese comfort food with this traditional yakhneh that offers a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine through its flavors and ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Improve the stew’s flavor by preparing it a day in advance, making it an excellent meal prep option or a time-saving solution for busy days.
• Deep and Developed Flavor: Searing the beef before stewing adds rich caramelized notes, while the layering of seasonings ensures a depth of flavor that belies the recipe’s simplicity.
• Family and Comfort: The stew’s irresistible aroma and nourishing qualities make it a comforting dish that brings people together, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
• Customizable Variations: Explore different regional variations of the stew, such as Palestinian, Syrian, or coastal Lebanese versions, and make it your own with unique twists and additions.
• Traditional Accompaniments: Serve the stew over Lebanese rice pilaf with warm pita bread on the side for a complete and authentic dining experience.
• Cooking Techniques: Learn essential cooking techniques, such as proper searing of the meat, liquid management, and resting times, to elevate your stew-making skills and ensure a perfect result.

Ingredients for Hearty Peas and Carrots Stew: Easy Recipe

Meat

• 1 pound chuck beef, trimmed and cut into inch cubes

Base Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon 7 Spice
• 4 cups water
• 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Vegetables

• 1 cup frozen carrots (or 1-2 carrot sticks, chopped)
• 3 cups frozen peas

For Serving

• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Traditional Arabic rice pilaf

Pro Tips for Hearty Peas and Carrots Stew: Easy Recipe

For a flavorful Peas and Carrots Stew, focus on properly searing the beef to develop rich, caramelized notes that will infuse the dish. Remember to choose well-marbled beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes for a tender result. Additionally, don’t rush the searing process; give each piece of beef about 2-3 minutes of uninterrupted contact with the hot pan for optimal browning.

To enhance the complexity of flavors in your stew, consider adding a tiny pinch of cinnamon as a finishing touch. This subtle addition brightens all the flavors and adds a pleasant depth to the dish. Remember that patience is key when making this stew – it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. So, don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time and let it sit in the refrigerator for a day to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Make Hearty Peas and Carrots Stew: Easy Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add beef, season with 7 Spice, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5-7 minutes until browned. Set aside, keeping oil and juices in the pan.

Step 2: Step 02

In the same pot, cook onions, garlic, and cilantro for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Step 03

Pour in the tomato sauce, deglaze the pot, then add fresh tomatoes and 4 cups of boiling water. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Step 04

Add the cooked beef back to the pot along with peas and carrots. Simmer over low heat for 30-45 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Step 05

Top traditional Arabic rice pilaf with the prepared stew and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Peas and Carrots Stew, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the stew promptly, where it can be kept for up to 3-4 days. The flavors of this dish actually deepen and improve with time, making it an excellent make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough and to maintain the stew’s rich flavors.

For longer storage or meal prep purposes, you can freeze the Peas and Carrots Stew in portion-sized containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container to account for expansion during freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it on the stovetop. Consider adding a little extra broth if needed to adjust the consistency as the stew may thicken slightly during freezing. This hearty and comforting stew is a versatile dish that lends itself well to storing and reheating, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version of this Peas and Carrots Stew, you can substitute the chuck beef with meat alternatives like seitan, tempeh, or extra-firm tofu for a similar hearty texture. You can also consider using a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini or portobello, to add a rich umami flavor to the stew. Additionally, to enhance the savory depth, you might want to add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to mimic the meaty taste.

If you prefer a lighter version of this stew or have dietary restrictions, you can replace the olive oil with vegetable broth or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Instead of using traditional Arabic 7 Spice blend, you can create your own blend using a combination of spices like paprika, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist. Moreover, feel free to swap the frozen peas and carrots with fresh vegetables of your choice, such as green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender but still vibrant in color.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider presenting the Peas and Carrots Stew in individual bread bowls. Simply hollow out small round loaves of bread, ladle the stew into the bread bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The combination of the rich stew and the warm, crusty bread creates a cozy and rustic dining experience that adds an extra layer of comfort to the meal.

Another idea is to serve the Peas and Carrots Stew alongside a platter of warm pita bread triangles brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with a pinch of 7 Spice. This allows diners to scoop up the flavorful stew with the fragrant and slightly spiced pita bread, enhancing the overall experience with different textures and flavors. The interactive element of tearing and dipping the pita bread adds a fun and communal aspect to the meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

FAQs for Hearty Peas and Carrots Stew: Easy Recipe

Question?

What is 7 Spice and can I substitute it with a different spice blend?

Answer:

7 Spice, also known as Baharat, is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, and nutmeg. This blend adds a unique depth and warmth to the stew. While you can substitute it with a mix of equal parts allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, and nutmeg, for the most authentic flavor, it’s recommended to use 7 Spice.

Question:

How can I make the stew thicker if the sauce seems too thin?

Answer:

If the sauce in your Peas and Carrots Stew seems too thin, you can thicken it by mashing some of the cooked carrots against the side of the pot. This will release their natural starches and help thicken the sauce. Alternatively, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stirring it into the stew. Simmer the stew for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.

Question:

Why is it recommended to sear the beef before stewing?

Answer:

Properly searing the beef before stewing is crucial as it helps develop rich, caramelized notes that enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Searing the beef creates a Maillard reaction, which adds depth and complexity to the stew. Make sure to sear the beef in batches, allowing each piece to develop a nice brown crust for the best results.

Question:

Can I make Peas and Carrots Stew a day ahead?

Answer:

Absolutely! In fact, the stew actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld and develop further in the refrigerator. Making it ahead also allows for easy meal planning and prep. Simply store the stew in the refrigerator and gently reheat it when ready to serve. You may need to add a bit of broth to adjust the consistency if needed.

Conclusion

As you savor the last spoonful of this hearty Peas and Carrots Stew, let its comforting flavors linger, a testament to the power of simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Whether you’re seeking a taste of Lebanese home cooking or just looking for a soul-warming meal, this stew delivers on all fronts. Remember, it’s not just a recipe but a connection to a culinary tradition that spans generations, a warm embrace in a bowl that welcomes all who gather around the table.

So, gather your loved ones, set a pot of Peas and Carrots Stew to simmer on the stove, and let the aroma fill your kitchen with anticipation. As you take that first bite, may you feel the warmth and love that went into crafting this dish, a reminder that the joy of cooking lies not just in the final result but in the shared moments and memories created along the way. Embrace the journey of exploring new flavors and techniques, and may each pot of stew you make be a celebration of the culinary traditions that bring us all together.