This Greek recipe (αρακάς με πατάτες, pronounced ah-rah-KAS meh pah-TAH-tes) combines peas, onions, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes , dill and lemon for a delicious main dish or vegetable side.
While vegetables are generally served as a side dish in America, in Greece it’s common to eat a plate full of vegetables as a main entree. Lathera dishes (oil foods) feature olive oil as the main source of fat. The classic Greek dish known as Arakas Latheros literally translates to “oiled peas,” and includes similar ingredients to those below, except for potatoes. Adding potatoes changes the name to “Arakas me Patates.”
The following traditional way of cooking peas is easy, delicious, heart-healthy, tastes even better the next day, and will most certainly become a family favorite. Just a few simple ingredients make the most delicious sauce imaginable. Try to use USDA organic ingredients when available, in order to reduce your family’s exposure to pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals.
Serve with crusty wholegrain bread and feta cheese for a delightful meal!
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4-6 onions, chopped
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 pounds fresh peas, shelled (about 5 cups) or frozen garden peas
- 8 fresh plum tomatoes, chopped, or 2 jars/cans diced tomatoes
- 2 pints grape tomatoes
- 1 jar tomato paste
- 4-6 Yukon Gold or other potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
- 1 small bunch fresh dill, chopped (about 1+ cup)
- 3-4 cups fresh water
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried oregano and parsley, as desired
- Juice of 2 lemons
- In a large saucepan or pot, heat the olive oil and sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until translucent, about 10-15 minutes. Do not brown.
- Once onions are soft, add tomatoes, tomato paste, potatoes, and pepper.
- Increase heat to high and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir in peas, dill, oregano, parsley and just enough water to cover ingredients.
- Cover partially and simmer over low heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until peas and potato are soft. Stir in lemon juice. Remove lid during last 5 minutes of simmering.
Variations:
- Chopped carrots and/or fennel may be added to this recipe.
- Add additional tomatoes for more sauce.
καλή όρεξη (kah-LEE OR-ex-ee)
Enjoy your meal!
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