Name: Spiced Pea Stew With Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Persian-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 cups frozen peas (reserve ½ cup for garnish); 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1½ tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 2–3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; ½ cup plain yogurt (for serving); 3–4 cups water or vegetable broth

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I turn to this stew when I want something deeply flavorful yet simple to prepare. The slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness in the peas and onions, while the spices lend a warm, earthy profile. I find the fresh pea garnish and tangy yogurt not only enhance the visual appeal but also add texture and contrast. Whether served with fluffy rice or warm flatbread, this stew becomes a satisfying centerpiece.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen peas
Onion
Garlic
Fresh ginger
Ground cumin
Ground turmeric
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Sesame seeds
Fresh cilantro
Plain yogurt (for drizzling)

directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot and sautéing chopped onion until soft and golden.
I stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, and turmeric, cooking them briefly to release their fragrance.
Then I add most of the peas, saving a portion for the garnish, and simmer everything with water or broth until the flavors meld—about 45–50 minutes.
While the stew simmers, I crush toasted sesame seeds and mix them with the reserved peas and chopped cilantro to create a colorful topping.
Once the stew is thickened and peas are tender, I ladle it into bowls and spoon the fresh topping over each serving.
Finally, I drizzle with plain yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes a total of 1 hour and 10 minutes to make, with 15 minutes of prep and 55 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

I sometimes add diced tomatoes or a bit of tomato paste for a richer, slightly tangy base.
For added protein, I stir in chickpeas or lentils during the simmering stage.
If I want a vegan version, I simply skip the yogurt or use a plant-based alternative.
When I crave a spicier kick, I add a pinch of cayenne or chopped green chili to the base.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm the stew gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. I always add the yogurt and fresh pea topping right before serving to keep them vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, I can use fresh peas when they’re in season. I just reduce the cooking time slightly, since fresh peas tend to cook faster than frozen ones.

What can I use instead of yogurt?

I sometimes use sour cream or labneh for a similar tangy effect. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened coconut yogurt works nicely too.

Is this stew freezer-friendly?

The base of the stew freezes well. I avoid freezing the pea topping or yogurt—those are better added fresh just before serving.

What can I serve with this stew?

I like to serve it with steamed basmati rice, warm pita, or flatbreads. It’s also great with a side of simple cucumber salad for contrast.

Can I blend the stew for a smoother texture?

Absolutely. I sometimes partially blend it with an immersion blender if I want a creamier consistency, while still leaving some peas whole for texture.

Conclusion

This Spiced Pea Stew With Yogurt brings together comfort, color, and complexity in a single bowl. With its fragrant spices, sweet peas, and creamy yogurt, it feels both nourishing and elegant. It’s the kind of dish I reach for when I want something warm and soul-satisfying without much fuss.