Velvety Potato and Pea Stew: A One-Pot Comfort Classic

Satisfy your cravings with this Velvety Potato and Pea Stew. Packed with tender potatoes, sweet peas, and a creamy, flavorful broth, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, this stew is a must-try for comfort food lovers.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 sprig fresh thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for added richness)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dice the Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes for quicker cooking.
2. Thaw the Peas: If using frozen peas, rinse them under cool water to slightly thaw.

2. Cook the Base

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

3. Create the Creamy Stew

1. Mash for Texture (Optional): Mash a few potatoes directly in the pot to thicken the stew while keeping some chunks intact for texture.
2. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Add the Peas and Season

1. Cook the Peas: Stir in the green peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
2. Season: Add thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or grated Parmesan over the stew before serving.
2. Serve Hot: Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish: Pair with a side of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll for a satisfying meal.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or pan-seared salmon.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.

Tips for Success

• Cut Evenly: Dice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Adjust Consistency: For a thicker stew, add less broth or mash more potatoes. For a soupier texture, add extra broth or cream.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Velvety Potato and Pea Stew is rich, comforting, and incredibly versatile. It’s a budget-friendly, one-pot meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for meal prep. The creamy broth and vibrant peas create a balanced dish that’s both hearty and light.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Variations to Try

• Herbed Delight: Add fresh dill or basil for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or Gruyère for a creamy, cheesy version.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

This Velvety Potato and Pea Stew is the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion. Its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and warm flavors make it a family favorite. Share your variations and let us know how you made this recipe your own!