Traditional Varivo od Graška (Pea Stew)

Sastojci

• Dried peas500g
• Smoked pork belly or ham hock200g
• Onion1 large
• Carrot2 medium
• Garlic2 cloves
• Vegetable oil or lard2 tbsp
• All-purpose flour1 tbsp
• Wateras needed
• Saltto taste
• Black pepperto taste
• Fresh parsleyfor garnish

Koraci

1. 1

   Soak dried peas overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse.

2. 2

   In a large pot, combine soaked peas, smoked meat, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until peas are tender. Skim off any foam.

3. 3

   While peas are cooking, finely chop onion, carrot, and garlic.

4. 4

   In a separate pan, heat oil or lard. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add carrots and garlic and cook for another 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the peas. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.

6. 6

   Remove the smoked meat from the pot. Once cool enough to handle, shred or dice the meat and return it to the stew.

7. 7

   In a small bowl, whisk flour with a little cold water to make a smooth slurry. Stir this slurry into the stew to thicken it slightly. Simmer for 5 more minutes.

8. 8

   Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.