Savaaki Pelekie Zirni - A Delightful Traditional Dish

Savaaki Pelekie Zirni is a delicious traditional dish that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With tender gray peas, flavorful cured pork, and rich creamy sauce, this meal is both hearty and satisfying. Its key ingredients are nutritious and offer a hearty dose of protein, making it a perfect dish for both lunch and dinner. The subtle spicing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them, providing a taste that's both comforting and appetizing. Savaaki Pelekie Zirni is not just about flavor; it also captures the essence of communal dining, being ideal for family gatherings. The addition of mushrooms and leeks gives it an earthy depth, while the creamy sauce adds richness and smoothness. It's a dish that embodies warmth, making it perfect for colder days. Whether you're new to this dish or have enjoyed it before, its timeless appeal and mouthwatering taste make it a favorite for many.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g gray peas
• 350 g cured pork
• 250 g mushrooms
• 60 g leeks
• 1 onion
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch ground black pepper

For the Sauce

• 100 ml water
• 3 tbsp sour cream
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic
• 150 ml sweet cream
• 30 g leeks

Preparation Time

Total: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by slicing the cured pork and onion. Place them in a pan over medium heat to brown slightly for about 3 minutes. Ensure the onions do not turn golden brown.
2. While these are cooking, chop the mushrooms and 30 g of leeks. Save the rest of the leeks for the sauce.
3. Combine the chopped ingredients with gray peas in the pan, adding a pinch of salt and black pepper. Allow them to sauté for 5 minutes while preparing the sauce.
4. For the sauce, mix 3 tablespoons of sour cream with 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Add 2 cloves of crushed garlic and 30 g of finely sliced leeks.
5. Stir in 150 ml of sweet cream. To achieve the desired consistency, add 100 ml of water; adjust for thickness as preferred.
6. Pour the sauce over the cooked mixture in the pan. Let it simmer until it's slightly thickened and the flavors meld together.
7. During cooking, occasionally stir to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
8. Once the sauce begins to bubble, reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for a few more minutes.
9. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
10. Ensure the peas are tender when pricking with a fork.
11. The creamy richness of the sauce should coat all the ingredients nicely.
12. Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
13. Serve hot for the best experience of flavors and textures.
14. Garnish with fresh herbs for added aroma, if desired.
15. Savor the rich and satisfying Savaaki Pelekie Zirni with your loved ones.

Tips

• To reduce calorie intake, use light sour cream and mayonnaise.
• For a vegetarian option, replace cured pork with smoked tofu or tempeh.
• Adding a splash of white wine during sauce preparation can enhance flavors.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving Protein: 18g Fats: 22g Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• Use turkey bacon instead of pork for a leaner alternative.
• Enhance flavors with a dash of smoked paprika.
• Turn it into a stew by adding more water or broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Best Places

If you're traveling and wish to try similar traditional dishes, here are the top places:

• Vincents - Fine dining with a touch of tradition. Location: Elizabetes iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
• 3 Pavaru Restorans - Contemporary takes on classic flavors. Location: Torņa iela 4, Riga, Latvia.
• Alus Arsenals - Homey vibe offering hearty meals. Location: Tirgoņu iela 4, Riga, Latvia.
• Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs - Popular for authentic dishes and live music. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
• Sefpavars Vilhelms - Rustic dining with local ingredients. Location: Grēcinieku iela 6, Riga, Latvia.
• Riviera - Mediterranean twist on regional cuisine. Location: Dzirnavu iela 31, Riga, Latvia.
• Muusu - Modern space with traditional menus. Location: Skārņu iela 6, Riga, Latvia.
• Valtera Restorans - Celebrating local and organic produce. Location: Miesnieku iela 8, Riga, Latvia.
• Salve - Timeless Latvian dishes. Location: Ratslaukums 5, Riga, Latvia.
• Dome Fish Restaurant - Known for fish but offers great traditional meals too. Location: Miesnieku iela 4, Riga, Latvia.