Hello friends of Paulina Cocina! I hope you're hungry and eager to eat something delicious and easy to make, because today we're bringing you an easy and very traditional recipe: peas with ham . This traditional grandmother's dish , which can be made in just a few minutes and satiates the voracious animal within us, is, just as its name suggests, a combination of this tender and sweet legume with a good Serrano or raw ham and a few ingredients that enhance the dish's flavors.
Today we're going to share with you all the information you need to know about this simple yet delicious dish, along with some preparation tips and a step-by-step recipe to make it at home and indulge in this Mediterranean delicacy.
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About peas with ham
What are peas with ham and why are they so popular?
Peas with ham are a classic Spanish dish that combines the sweetness and mildness of peas with the salty, smoky flavor of ham. This delicious recipe is highly appreciated in the Mediterranean diet and has become a versatile and comforting option. Peas, also known as "green peas," are small legumes characterized by their tender texture and slightly sweet flavor.
On the other hand, the ham adds a touch of intense, salty flavor that enhances the taste of the peas. Together, these ingredients create an irresistible combination that's perfect for satisfying your craving for something delicious.
Sautéed peas with ham: ideal for any occasion
Peas are an easy-to-prepare variety of legume because, whether fresh or frozen, they don't require pre-soaking and cook in just a few minutes.
Sautéed peas with ham are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Their flavor and attractive presentation make them an ideal choice for both family meals and more formal dinners.
This dish is perfect as a side dish for meat, poultry, or fish, as their flavors complement each other perfectly and add a touch of color. It can also be enjoyed as a main course, especially when served with white rice or baked potatoes .
The origin of peas with ham
The history of peas dates back to ancient times, when they were widely cultivated in different regions of the world. Peas are native to Western Asia and are believed to have been consumed for over 5,000 years .
Over the centuries, peas spread to Europe and America, where they adapted to different culinary cultures. The use of ham in preparing peas is typical of Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine, where it is a widely used ingredient.
The combination of peas and ham has been passed down from generation to generation , becoming a culinary tradition in several countries. Each region has its own way of preparing and enjoying peas with ham, but the essence of this classic dish remains the same.
Cooking peas: time and 4 recommended techniques
When using frozen peas in a ham dish, it's important to cook them properly to enhance their flavor and texture. The most common way to cook frozen peas is by steaming or boiling them . Cooking times may vary depending on the size and variety of the frozen peas, but here are some general cooking tips.
- In a pot, boil salted water. Add the frozen peas and let them boil for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still firm to the bite. It's important not to overcook them, as they can become too mushy.
- Once they are cooked, drain them and rinse them quickly with cold water to stop the cooking and maintain their vibrant green color.
- Cooking fresh peas is similar. But it's important to remove them from the pod and wash them before cooking.
- Once prepared, they can be stored in the refrigerator without any problems. It's important to note that the best storage time is approximately 3-4 days, stored in an airtight container.
4 tips for the recipe for peas with ham
- If you are looking for a softer, creamier texture, you can mash some of the cooked peas before mixing them with the ham .
- If using frozen peas, check the cooking times indicated on the package.
- Other ingredients can be added to taste, such as sliced carrots or mushrooms, to give the dish more variety.
- If using fresh peas, remove them from the pod and wash them well before cooking. Once cooked, they can be frozen without any problems.
Recipe for Peas with Ham
- Yield : 4 portions
- Preparation time : 30 minutes
Ingredients for sautéed peas with ham
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 100 grams of Serrano, Iberian or raw ham, cut into small pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to make peas with ham in a few steps
- In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until golden brown and tender.
- Add the Serrano or Iberian ham to the pan and sauté for a few minutes until slightly crispy.
- Add the peas to the pan and mix well with the ham, onion, and garlic. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender but still have their texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve the freshly cooked peas with ham. Sprinkle with a little chopped fresh parsley.
