How to Make Turkish Potato and Pea Stew (Patatesli Bezelye)
Turkish Potato and Pea Stew, known as Patatesli Bezelye, is a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly showcases the essence of Turkish cuisine. This satisfying stew is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrition and taste. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious Patatesli Bezelye at home!
Ingredients Needed
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preparing your vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes into medium-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly. If using fresh peas, shell them. Otherwise, frozen peas can be added directly.
2. Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add Tomatoes
Once the onions are ready, add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
4. Incorporate Potatoes and Peas
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes and peas. Stir everything together, ensuring that the vegetables are well mixed with the tomato and onion base.
5. Season the Stew
Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) to the pot. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the vegetables.
6. Add Liquid
Pour in the water or vegetable broth, covering the vegetables completely. Bring the stew to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
7. Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Check for Doneness
After the simmering time, check the potatoes with a fork. They should be soft and easily break apart. If needed, you can simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
9. Garnish and Serve
Once the stew is cooked, remove it from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped dill or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Patatesli Bezelye
- Using fresh, seasonal vegetables will enhance the flavor of this stew tremendously.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for additional variety.
- If you're short on time, using frozen diced potatoes can speed up the cooking process.
Enjoy your homemade Turkish Potato and Pea Stew, a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table!