Ingredients
Main Ingredients
The key to making a delicious Arakas Latheros, a traditional Greek dish known as peas with tomato and dill, lies in selecting the right ingredients.
In terms of main ingredients, you will need:
- 250 grams of fresh or frozen green peas, depending on your preference and the season
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped to add a sweet and savory flavor
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced to bring out their aromatic properties
- 2 large tomatoes, diced into small pieces for added texture and flavor
- A handful of fresh dill weed, chopped to add its distinctive taste and aroma
- Salt and pepper to taste, allowing you to adjust the seasoning according to your preference
- Olive oil, used as a cooking medium to enhance the flavors of the ingredients
- Optional: A pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity from the tomatoes
250g dried peas
- The 250g of dried peas used in this recipe are a crucial ingredient for Arakas Latheros, Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill.
- The type of dried peas to use is split peas or marrowfat peas, which have been rehydrated to yield a creamy texture.
- Dried peas should be rinsed and drained before cooking to remove any impurities.
- Some people prefer to soak the dried peas overnight in water, but this step can be skipped if using quick-soaking or pressure-cooking methods.
Culinary Characteristics
- The rehydrated dried peas will have a soft, slightly firm texture and a mild flavor that is neutral in taste.
- They absorb the flavors of other ingredients well, making them an excellent base for this dish.
When selecting dried peas for cooking, it’s essential to check their packaging date and choose ones that are fresh and have not expired.
Dried peas can be stored for long periods in a cool, dry place but should be used within a year of opening the package for optimal flavor and texture.
Proper storage will help retain the nutrients found in dried peas, such as protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and potassium.
Nutritional Value
- Dried peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, containing about 14g per 100g serving.
- They also provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and promote satiety.
Rehydrated dried peas will retain their nutritional value but may have slightly different cooking times or textures compared to fresh peas.
The exact nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific type of dried pea used in this Arakas Latheros recipe.
1 cup chopped fresh dill
Dill is a fresh and fragrant herb that adds a bright, citrusy flavor to many dishes, including the traditional Greek recipe for Arakas Latheros.
When using dill in cooking, it’s essential to choose fresh and high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of your dish.
Types of Dill
Dill comes in various forms, but for cooking, you’ll want to use the fresh version. Fresh dill has a more intense flavor than dried or frozen dill and is preferred in many recipes.
Purchasing Fresh Dill
When buying fresh dill, look for bunches with bright green leaves and a fresh aroma. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves, as they can be bitter and affect the flavor of your dish.
Using Chopped Fresh Dill in Arakas Latheros Recipe
To use chopped fresh dill in the Arakas Latheros recipe, follow these steps:
- Select 1 cup of fresh dill and wash it thoroughly under cold running water.
- Pat dry the dill with a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Remove the leaves from the stem by pinching them off, and discard the stems.
- Chop the dill leaves finely using a sharp knife or kitchen shears. You can also use a food processor with caution.
After chopping, your 1 cup of fresh dill is ready to add to the Arakas Latheros recipe. The chopped dill will infuse its flavor into the peas, tomatoes, and sauce, creating a delicious and authentic Greek dish.
2 large tomatoes, diced
The first ingredient to note is the two large tomatoes that are required for this recipe. These tomatoes should be diced into small, uniform pieces in order to distribute their flavor and texture evenly throughout the dish.
In terms of specific characteristics, it’s best to choose tomatoes that are ripe but still firm, as they will hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid using overly ripe or soft tomatoes, as they may break down too quickly and release excessive moisture into the pot.
For this recipe, it’s not necessary to use any particular variety of tomato, although some types may be more flavorful than others. For example, heirloom or cherry tomatoes could add a burst of sweetness and color to the dish, while larger, meatier tomatoes like beefsteaks might provide a deeper flavor profile.
In addition to their flavor and texture, the diced tomatoes will also play a key role in thickening the sauce that is formed during cooking. As the tomatoes break down and release their juices, they will help to create a rich, velvety consistency that coats the peas and other ingredients evenly.
4 cloves garlic, minced
In the Arakas Latheros recipe, one of the key ingredients is garlic, which plays a crucial role in adding flavor to this traditional Greek dish.
The ingredient list requires 4 cloves garlic, which should be carefully minced before use. Minced garlic can be obtained by peeling and finely chopping the garlic bulbs using a knife or a specialized tool.
The mincing process helps to release the potent oils and enzymes contained within the garlic, allowing them to dissolve evenly throughout the dish and providing an intense flavor experience for those consuming it.
2 tbsp olive oil
When it comes to Ingredients for the Arakas Latheros recipe, also known as Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill, there are several essential components that bring together the flavors and textures of this classic dish.
Oil
- Olive Oil: This is the primary oil used in the Arakas Latheros recipe. It’s an excellent source of antioxidants and has a distinct flavor that complements the other ingredients. In this recipe, you will need 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- The use of olive oil is not only for its taste but also for its health benefits. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, which are known to lower the risk of heart disease and some cancers. When cooking with olive oil, it’s essential to heat it carefully to avoid creating unhealthy compounds.
In summary, the use of olive oil in the Arakas Latheros recipe adds flavor, moisture, and nutritional benefits to the dish, making it a staple ingredient for this traditional Greek recipe.
Salt and pepper to taste
The ingredients required for this traditional Greek recipe, Arakas Latheros, are:
- 1 pound fresh peas, preferably shelled and podded the day before to allow excess moisture to evaporate
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced and separated into rings
- 4 large cloves of garlic, minced and crushed using a garlic press or microplane for optimal flavor release
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, preferably heirloom varieties, diced to about 1 inch cubes for added texture
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, cold-pressed from high-quality olives and perfect for the delicate balance of flavors in this recipe
- 2 sprigs of fresh dill, chopped finely with stems discarded to maintain the herb’s delicate flavor profile
- Salt and pepper to taste, ideally Himalayan pink salt or a flaky, artisanal option for enhanced depth and a touch of sweetness in balance with the piquant flavors of garlic and dill
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, for its slightly sweet and tangy properties that complement the richness of tomatoes and peas
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, added at the very end to garnish this hearty vegetable dish with an herbaceous freshness
Please note: The quantity of each ingredient can be adjusted according to individual preferences and dietary requirements.
Optional Ingredients
The basic ingredients for Arakas Latheros are quite simple, yet they pack a lot of flavor in this classic Greek dish.
For the main components of the recipe:
- 250g dried green peas (you can also use fresh or frozen peas)
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 5-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 kg fresh tomatoes, diced (or 200g of canned crushed tomatoes)
For the flavor boosters:
- 20g fresh dill, chopped (you can also use dried dill weed as a substitute)
- Salt and pepper to taste A pinch of paprika (optional)
- Olive oil for sautéing
Optional ingredients to take Arakas Latheros to the next level:
- 1-2 red or green hot peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley, chopped (add it on top as a garnish)
Other than these ingredients, make sure you have the essential spices and condiments in your pantry:
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Olive oil
Feel free to adjust the quantities or add new ingredients based on personal taste preferences. This classic Greek recipe is forgiving, but using high-quality ingredients will always elevate the final dish.
1/4 cup chopped red onion
The ingredient list for a delicious Arakas Latheros, or Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill, is comprised of fresh and flavorful components that come together to create a mouthwatering dish.
At the heart of this recipe are the peas, which serve as the main protein source. Fresh peas can be used for this purpose, but frozen peas also work well in a pinch. When using fresh peas, make sure they’re plump and tender before adding them to the pot. If using frozen peas, thaw them according to the package instructions.
The onion is another essential ingredient that adds depth of flavor to the dish. Chopped red onion, which is used here, provides a sweet and crunchy texture that complements the softness of the peas perfectly. The use of red onion also adds an extra layer of color and visual appeal to the finished dish.
The garlic is minced in this recipe and sautés along with the onions to create a fragrant base for the sauce. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become overpowering and unpleasantly bitter. A few cloves are enough to get the desired flavor without overpowering the rest of the ingredients.
Cherry tomatoes are used in this recipe, but other types of small tomatoes like grape or Roma also work well. Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the pot, depending on their size. This helps release their juice and flavor into the sauce as it cooks.
The dill is a crucial herb that adds an unmistakable Greek twist to this recipe. Fresh dill weed can be used for its delicate flavor and aroma, but you can also use dried dill weed in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the amount according to the package instructions, as dried herbs can be quite potent.
The oil is the medium through which all these ingredients come together in perfect harmony. A neutral oil like olive or avocado works well here, but feel free to experiment with other oils that suit your taste preferences.
1 tsp paprika
The ingredient list for this traditional Greek recipe, Arakas Latheros or Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill, highlights the importance of using fresh and aromatic components to bring out the full flavors.
1 tsp paprika: This is a critical component in adding depth and a smoky undertone to the dish. Paprika, derived from the dried and ground fruit of the sweet or bell pepper plant, is used extensively in Mediterranean cuisine. Its slightly sweet and earthy flavor pairs perfectly with the peas, tomatoes, and dill.
When selecting paprika, look for a high-quality, organic option that has not been treated with chemicals or additives. The natural sweetness and complex flavors of the paprika will greatly enhance the overall taste experience of this traditional Greek recipe.
The use of paprika in Arakas Latheros demonstrates the creative combination of spices and herbs commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine, reflecting the region’s rich culinary heritage. By incorporating a variety of aromatic ingredients like paprika, garlic, onion, and fresh dill, cooks can unlock the full potential of their dishes.
In summary, paprika is an essential component in creating the signature taste of Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill. Its unique blend of sweet, smoky, and earthy notes adds a new dimension to this beloved recipe, making it a staple in many Greek households.
By embracing the simplicity and elegance of traditional Greek cooking, home cooks can appreciate the beauty of using high-quality ingredients like paprika, which elevates their creations from ordinary dishes to memorable feasts that bring people together.
Instructions
Cooking the Peas
- To cook the peas for the Arakas Latheros recipe, follow these steps:
- First, fill a medium saucepan with water, making sure to cover it by about an inch.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water and stir until dissolved, as this will help bring out the natural sweetness of the peas.
- Next, add 2 cups of fresh or frozen green peas to the saucepan, depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring the water and salt mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the peas are tender but still crisp.
- Carefully pour off the hot water from the saucepan through a fine-mesh strainer into a colander set in the sink.Alternatively, if you’re using frozen peas, skip this step and proceed directly to the next instruction.
- To help preserve the vibrant green color of the peas, immediately plunge them into an ice bath or under cold running water after cooking.
- This will stop the cooking process and prevent further color loss.
- After cooling the peas in an ice bath for 2-3 minutes, drain off any excess water.
Pouring Off Excess Water
- Pour off as much water from the saucepan as possible to remove excess moisture.
Soak the dried peas in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- To prepare a delicious and authentic Greek dish, Arakas Latheros, it’s essential to follow clear instructions. Here are some crucial steps to ensure your experience is successful:
Step 1: Preparing the Peas
- Soak the dried peas in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- This step is crucial to rehydrate the peas and make them tender. You can soak them in a large bowl or pot, making sure they’re completely covered with water.
Step 2: Preparing the Tomato and Dill Sauce
- Chop the fresh tomatoes into small pieces. You can use either cherry or regular tomatoes, depending on your preference.
- Mince the fresh dill leaves. Be sure to remove any stems or seeds for a more fragrant flavor.
Step 3: Cooking the Peas and Sauce
- Drain the soaked peas and place them in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add about 1/4 cup of water to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, minced dill, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmering the Arakas Latheros
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the peas to absorb the juices.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching.
Tips and Variations
- Use a mixture of green and red tomatoes for added color and flavor.
- Add some chopped onion, garlic, or lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for unique variations.
With these instructions and a little patience, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and authentic Greek dish in no time!
Drain and cook the peas in a large pot of boiling, salted water until tender, about 4550 minutes.
To prepare a delicious Greek dish called Arakas Latheros, which translates to “peas in a creamy sauce,” it’s essential to follow the instructions accurately. The first step involves cooking the peas properly.
Cooking peas requires attention to detail to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. In this recipe, you’re instructed to drain and cook the peas in a large pot of boiling, salted water until they are tender. This process should take approximately 4-5 minutes, not 4550 minutes as stated.
To clarify, here’s what you need to do: Place a large pot on your stovetop and fill it with enough cold water to cover the peas. Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low once boiling.
Next, add the peas to the pot and cook them until they are tender but still crisp. The exact cooking time will depend on the type and freshness of your peas. Generally, you can expect it to take around 4-5 minutes for most varieties.
While waiting for the peas to cook, prepare the sauce according to the Arakas Latheros recipe instructions. This typically involves sautéing onions, garlic, and dill in olive oil, then adding a mixture of tomato puree or crushed tomatoes and broth to create a creamy sauce.
Once your peas are cooked and the sauce is ready, combine them together. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor. Serve the Arakas Latheros hot over rice or pasta for a hearty and delicious Greek-inspired meal.
Remove from heat and set aside.
When cooking Araclas Latheros (Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill), it’s crucial to carefully follow the instructions to achieve the desired outcome.
One of the essential steps in preparing this dish is removing from heat and setting aside. This involves taking the pot off the stovetop or removing it from any other heat source, allowing it to cool down slightly.
To clarify, when you see the instruction Remove from heat and set aside, it means that the cooking process is almost complete. The next step will involve letting the mixture rest for a short period before serving.
This particular instruction is important because it prevents overcooking or burning the ingredients. By removing the pot from the heat source, you’re giving the flavors an opportunity to meld together and the ingredients to retain their texture and nutrients.
It’s also essential to set aside the mixture for a short time before serving. This allows the flavors to intensify, the peas to retain their color and texture, and the dill to infuse its distinctive aroma into the dish.
In summary, Remove from heat and set aside is a critical instruction in preparing Arakas Latheros (Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill). By carefully following this step, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic Greek dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
The time it takes for the mixture to set aside can vary depending on personal preference. Some people may choose to let it rest for 5-10 minutes, while others may prefer a longer or shorter time frame. The key is to balance the flavors and textures of the dish without overcooking or undercooking the ingredients.
When serving Arakas Latheros, be sure to garnish with fresh dill and lemon wedges on the side. This adds a pop of color and flavor to the dish, making it even more appealing to the palate.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt at Arakas Latheros doesn’t turn out exactly as you hoped. With time and patience, you’ll master this recipe and create a delicious Greek dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Preparing the Dish
Assembling the Recipe
To prepare the dish, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients, which typically include fresh peas, cherry tomatoes, dill, garlic, red onion, feta cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
First, wash and clean the vegetables to ensure they are free from any impurities. Peel the garlic cloves and finely chop them using a knife or a press.
Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside. Chop the fresh dill leaves finely as well, making sure not to bruise the leaves.
Next, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the sliced red onion to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until it’s translucent. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
Now it’s time to add the peas to the skillet. You can use either fresh or frozen peas, but make sure they are tender-crisp if using frozen. Cook the peas with the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender yet still retain some crunch.
Add the chopped dill leaves to the skillet and stir well to combine with the other ingredients. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer the vegetable mixture to a large serving dish or individual plates. Crumble feta cheese over the top, making sure to evenly distribute it among the servings.
The final step is to garnish each plate with additional fresh dill leaves, if desired, and serve immediately while the ingredients are still warm from cooking.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
To prepare the dish, start by preparing the ingredients that will be used for the sauce. This includes fresh dill, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, red onion, and a can of cherry tomatoes.
Next, chop the fresh dill into small pieces. You can use either the leaves or the stems, depending on your preference. If using the stems, make sure to remove any woody parts before chopping.
Peel the garlic cloves and mince them. This will help release their flavor and aroma during cooking.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can give it an unpleasant taste.
Add the chopped red onion to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. The onion should be translucent and slightly softened at this point.
Crush the cherry tomatoes by hand or use a spoon to crush them in the can. Add them to the saucepan with the garlic and onion mixture. Stir well to combine.
Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir again to ensure everything is well combined. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly and reduced in volume.
While the sauce is cooking, prepare the peas by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water. Remove any debris or stems, if necessary. Place the peas in a separate pot of boiling salted water. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. Drain the peas and set aside.
To serve, place a portion of the cooked peas on a plate, then spoon some of the sauce over the top. Garnish with additional chopped fresh dill, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Add diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, dill, and paprika (if using) to the pan, stirring to combine.
To prepare the dish, follow these steps:
Step 1: Adding Aromatics
- Add diced onions to the pan and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 2: Adding Liquid and Simmering
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Adding Vegetables and Spices
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, dill, and paprika (if using) to the pan, stirring to combine.
- Continue simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to intensify.
Step 4: Adding Peas and Finishing Touches
- Add frozen peas to the pan and cook until thawed and heated through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or dill to taste.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve the Arakas Latheros hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
- Enjoy as a side dish or add to rice, pasta, or other grains for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Once the peas are cooked, add them to the pan with the tomato mixture and stir gently to combine.
This crucial step involves carefully combining the cooked peas with the fragrant tomato mixture to create a harmonious union of flavors and textures.
To accomplish this, first ensure that the peas have reached a suitable level of doneness; they should be tender but still retain some crunchiness.
Once the peas are cooked to your liking, add them to the pan containing the tomato mixture, taking care not to overload the pan.
As you add the peas to the pan, gently stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to distribute the peas evenly and avoid creating a uniform layer on top of the tomatoes.
The goal here is to create a visually appealing dish where the peas are dispersed throughout the tomato mixture, rather than concentrated at the bottom of the pan.
Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly, ensuring that each component – the peas and the tomato mixture – melds together in perfect harmony.
This blending process should be gentle enough not to crush or mash any of the delicate pea pods.
The combination of tender peas, flavorful tomatoes, and fresh dill will create a delightful and aromatic dish that showcases the simplicity yet elegance of traditional Greek cuisine.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
To prepare the Arakas Latheros (Greek Peas with Tomato and Dill), it’s essential to serve it warm or at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly, and the texture of the peas remains tender.
Here are some detailed steps on how to achieve the perfect serving temperature:
Timing is everything: Cook the Arakas Latheros according to the recipe instructions, taking care not to overcook the peas. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on your stovetop heat and personal preference for doneness.
Temperature control: Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat source and let it sit for a few minutes. You can cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil to keep it warm while you prepare the serving area.
Transfer to serving dish: Use a slotted spoon or skimmer to transfer the Arakas Latheros to a warm serving dish or individual plates.
Add fresh dill and lemon wedges (optional): Garnish with chopped fresh dill, a dollop of crumbled feta cheese (if desired), or add a squeeze of lemon juice on top for added brightness and flavor.
Serve warm or at room temperature: Serve the Arakas Latheros immediately after plating, while it’s still warm. If you prefer to serve it at room temperature, simply let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Tips for achieving the perfect temperature:
If serving at a party or gathering, consider keeping a thermally insulated container filled with hot water on hand to keep the Arakas Latheros warm throughout the event.
To keep the dish fresh and prevent overcooking, it’s best to cook it in small batches. This way, you can reheat any leftovers as needed.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to present a delicious Arakas Latheros that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
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