Arakas Latheros (Green Peas Stewed in Olive Oil)

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~ Ingredients: ~ 1-1/2 lb fresh shelled green peas ~ 1/4 cup of olive oil ~ 1 large onion finely chopped ~ 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced ~ 4 large tomatoes ~ 1tbsp of tomato paste ~ 2 tbsp of freshly chopped dill ~ 2 shredded or grated carrots (Optional) ~ Salt and pepper to taste

 

~ Peel the fresh peas and place in a strainer to be washed and strained. ~ If there are any tender peels you can use them as well. ~ Heat up the olive oil in a large pot and add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until soft, stirring from time to time. ~ Meanwhile, wash and place the tomatoes in a food processor and process to a pulp or grate. ~ Add the sliced garlic and peas into the pot of onions and mix to coat thoroughly for 2-3 minutes. ~ Add the tomato paste diluted in a cup of warm water. ~ Add the pulped tomatoes and enough water to come about three-quarters of the way up the peas. ~ Add salt and pepper to taste, cover the pot and simmer over low heat for about 35 minutes. ~ Add the dill and continue to simmer for a further 10 minutes or until the peas are very tender. ~ Serve hot with some Feta cheese and plenty of bread. ~ Arakas Latheros (Green Peas Stewed in Olive Oil) can also be eaten cold. ~ Variations: ~ Add a tablespoon of Ouzo at the same time as the dill. ~ Use 1/2 a cup of butter in place of olive oil. ~ Arakas Latheros (Green Peas Stewed in Olive Oil) can also be done without tomatoes and tomato paste. ~ Good luck and bon appétit.