Arakas Latheros: A Delicious Greek Recipe for Healthy Comfort Food

Arakas Latheros is a delightful Greek dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. This hearty recipe features tender green peas simmered in a rich tomato sauce, often enhanced with aromatic herbs and a splash of olive oil. The history of Arakas Latheros dates back to traditional Greek kitchens, where it was cherished as a comforting meal during the spring months when fresh peas were in abundance. People love this dish not only for its delicious taste and satisfying texture but also for its convenience; it’s a one-pot wonder that can be prepared in under an hour. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Arakas Latheros is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and simple cooking that brings family and friends together.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green peas (or frozen if fresh is unavailable)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by rinsing the fresh green peas under cold water. If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them; they can go straight into the pot. 2. Next, peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes, about 1-inch in size. This will help them cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients. 3. Chop the onion finely. I like to use a sharp knife for this to make the process quicker and easier. 4. Mince the garlic cloves. I find that using a garlic press makes this step a breeze, but you can also chop them finely if you prefer. 5. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces. If you want a smoother sauce, you can blend them into a puree, but I enjoy the texture of diced tomatoes in this dish.

Cooking Process

6. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become translucent and slightly golden. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for our dish. 7. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 8. Now, it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes. Stir them into the onion and garlic mixture, and let them cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their juices. 9. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the flavors. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. 10. Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring them into the mixture. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors. 11. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, ensuring that the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Adding the Peas

12. Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to add the green peas. If you’re using fresh peas, they will only need about 5-7 minutes to cook. If you’re using frozen peas, they can be added directly without thawing. 13. Stir the peas into the pot, cover again, and let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes. This will allow the peas to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce. 14. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.

Final Touches and Serving

15. Once everything is cooked and the flavors have melded beautifully, remove the pot from the heat. I like to let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. 16. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. It adds a lovely touch to the dish. 17. Serve Arakas Latheros warm, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with rice or a simple salad.

Storage Tips

18. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day! 19. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.

Variations and Additions

20. Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! You can add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for extra

Conclusion:

In summary, Arakas Latheros is a delightful dish that truly deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire. This Greek-style green bean stew is not only bursting with flavor but also offers a healthy and satisfying meal option that can be enjoyed any day of the week. The combination of fresh green beans, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate. For serving suggestions, I love pairing Arakas Latheros with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or you can serve it alongside a refreshing Greek salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some diced potatoes or even chickpeas for an extra layer of texture and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as dill or parsley, to customize the flavor to your liking. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and experience the wonderful flavors of Arakas Latheros for yourself. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or any tips you discovered along the way. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!

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