If you’re craving a hearty and comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely must try the Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe. This traditional stew blends tender lamb or beef chunks with vibrant vegetables and luscious tomatoes, creating a flavor-packed meal that’s both nutritious and unforgettable. The balance between the sweetness of green peas, the earthiness of potatoes, and the fragrant punch of Lebanese seven spice makes every spoonful a celebration of rich, home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round pot with two red handles is shown from above, sitting on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot are many pieces of uncooked red meat, some with visible white fat lines, scattered loosely and resting on a thin layer of cooking oil that gives a shiny yellow tint to the pot's cream interior. The meat pieces vary in size and shape, with a mix of triangular and irregular cuts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the long list; this dish shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients that work perfectly together. Each item adds a unique layer of flavor and texture, making the stew heartwarming and deeply satisfying.

  • 2 lbs lamb or beef chunks: Choose well-marbled meat for tenderness and rich flavor.
  • 4 lbs Roma tomatoes (or 28-ounce canned crushed tomatoes or passata): Tomatoes bring subtle sweetness and a comforting tangy base to the stew.
  • 1 onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
  • 2 cups fresh carrots, chopped: Brings a gentle crunch and natural sweetness to the dish.
  • 3 cups white potatoes, cubed: Soaks up the stew’s flavors and provides a pleasing starchiness.
  • 4 cups green peas (frozen or fresh): The star ingredient that adds bursts of sweetness and a beautiful green hue.
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced: For aromatic warmth and a savory kick.
  • 2 bay leaves: Impart subtle herbal notes that marry all the flavors beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon Lebanese seven spice (or allspice): A fragrant blend that elevates the stew’s character with a lovely mix of earthy and slightly sweet spices.
  • 4 cups water or broth: To create the perfect stew consistency and enrich flavor if using broth.
  • 6 ounces canned tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness and thickens the stew nicely.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a smooth, fruity body to the stew.
  • Salt to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.

How to Make Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Base

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until they turn golden and fragrant. This base is crucial as it sets the tone, infusing the stew with that inviting, warm aroma that makes everyone’s mouth water.

Step 2: Brown the Meat Chunks

Next, add the lamb or beef chunks to the pot. Brown them evenly on all sides; this step locks in juices and intensifies the meaty flavor that forms the heart of our Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Once the meat has a nice sear, toss in the fresh Roma tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes, along with the tomato paste. Stir well to combine, letting the tomatoes break down slowly for a rich, hearty sauce that coats every bit of meat and vegetable.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Spices

Throw in the carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and Lebanese seven spice. Add salt according to your taste. These ingredients add contrasting textures, earthiness, and vibrant warmth, turning the stew into a well-rounded meal.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the water or broth, ensuring the meat and vegetables are just covered. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 6: Add Peas and Final Seasoning

About 10 minutes before serving, add the green peas to preserve their bright color and natural sweetness. Check seasoning and adjust salt if necessary. This final touch gives the Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe its signature pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe

The image shows a red cooking pot with two handles, sitting on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there is a thick reddish-brown sauce layer at the bottom, partially visible around the edges. On top of this sauce, there is a layer of bright green peas mainly gathered on the left side, and a layer of small, pale yellow potato cubes spread mostly on the right side, covering part of the peas. The layers are distinct and fresh-looking, with a mix of smooth and textured elements visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish, adding a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the stew’s rich flavors. For those who love a touch of heat, some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil on top can add excitement.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs wonderfully with warm flatbreads like pita or Lebanese khubz to scoop up every delicious bite. Alternatively, serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or a simple green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe in rustic bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens. If you have guests, consider offering it with small bowls of fresh lemon wedges so everyone can add a squeeze of brightness according to their taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe keeps amazingly well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making the next day’s meal just as delightful.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew thickens too much. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring once or twice during warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe?

Absolutely! While lamb and beef are traditional and particularly flavorful, you can experiment with pork or even chicken. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly to ensure tenderness.

Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the meat and boost the stew with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplants or use plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of water or meat broth for a rich vegetarian version.

How do I adjust the spices if I can’t find Lebanese seven spice?

Lebanese seven spice typically blends allspice, cinnamon, and other warm spices. If unavailable, using ground allspice alone works well. You can also mix in small amounts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper to mimic the flavor profile.

Can I prepare parts of this stew in advance?

Definitely! You can chop vegetables and marinate meat the day before. Even browning the meat and sautéing the onions can be done earlier; just refrigerate and combine everything when ready to cook.

What’s the best way to thicken Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe if it’s too watery?

If your stew is thinner than you like, remove the lid and simmer uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, stirring in a spoonful of tomato paste or a small slurry of cornstarch and water will thicken it nicely.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give the Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that turns simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal full of vibrant colors and layers of flavor. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this stew invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy every spoonful. Happy cooking!

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Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks Recipe

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4.3 from 25 reviews

Bazella Pea Stew with Meat Chunks is a hearty Middle Eastern-inspired dish combining tender chunks of lamb or beef with a fragrant mixture of tomatoes, garlic, spices, and green peas. Slow-cooked to perfection, this savory stew is rich in flavor and perfect for warming meals.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Stew
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 2 lbs lamb or beef chunks
  • 4 lbs Roma tomatoes or substitute 28 ounce can of crushed tomatoes or passata (see note 1)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cups fresh carrots, chopped
  • 3 cups white potatoes, cubed
  • 4 cups green peas, frozen or fresh
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced

Spices and Liquids

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon Lebanese seven spice or substitute with allspice
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 6 ounces canned tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb or beef chunks and sear until browned on all sides to develop flavor and seal in juices.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the chopped carrots, cubed potatoes, and bay leaves. Sprinkle the Lebanese seven spice (or allspice) over the mixture and stir well to coat all ingredients.
  4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Liquids: Add the fresh Roma tomatoes or crushed tomatoes/passata along with the canned tomato paste. Pour in 4 cups of water or broth, stirring everything together thoroughly.
  5. Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  6. Add Peas: About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, add the green peas to the stew. Continue simmering uncovered to let the peas cook but stay tender and vibrant.
  7. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust salt as needed. Serve hot, ideally with rice or crusty bread.

Notes

  • Note 1: If using fresh Roma tomatoes, blanch and peel them before chopping for the best texture.
  • You can substitute beef broth or vegetable broth for water to deepen flavor.
  • This stew thickens naturally as it simmers; if it gets too thick, add more water or broth.
  • Lebanese seven spice typically includes cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and black pepper; if unavailable, a combination of allspice and cinnamon works well.

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