Latvian Grey Peas with Bacon
Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi
A hearty and traditional Latvian national dish, Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi consists of tender grey peas combined with crispy smoked bacon and softened onions. It's a comforting and savory meal, often associated with colder months and holiday celebrations.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried grey peas(If Latvian large grey peas are available, use those. Otherwise, pigeon peas or black-eyed peas can be substituted.)
- 250 g Smoked bacon(Diced into small pieces.)
- 2 Large onions(Chopped.)
- Water(For soaking and cooking.)
- Salt(To taste.)
- Freshly ground black pepper(To taste.)
- Sour cream(Optional, for serving.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the dried grey peas thoroughly. Soak them in plenty of cold water overnight (at least 8-12 hours).
💡 Tip: Soaking helps to shorten the cooking time and soften the peas. - 2
Drain the soaked peas and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer gently until tender. This can take 1.5 - 3 hours depending on the peas. Add more hot water if needed to keep them covered. Avoid stirring too much initially. Start checking for tenderness after 1.5 hours.
💡 Tip: Add a pinch of salt when the peas are nearly ready. - 3
While the peas are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy and the fat has rendered.
- 4
Remove the crispy bacon bits with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Add the chopped onions to the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook over medium heat until softened and golden brown (about 8-10 minutes).
- 5
Once the peas are tender (soft but not mushy), drain most of the cooking liquid (leave a little bit in the pot). Add the cooked onions (with the fat) and the reserved crispy bacon bits back to the pot with the peas. Stir everything together gently.
💡 Tip: Some recipes suggest adding a tablespoon of olive oil if there isn't enough bacon fat. - 6
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Reheat gently if needed. Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of sour cream.
💡 Tip: Garnish with fresh dill if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Grey peas have a unique nutty flavor and slightly chewy texture.
- ✓This dish is often served during Christmas and New Year in Latvia.
- ✓It can be served as a side dish or a main course.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some variations include adding a dollop of kefir or butter for richness.
- Can be served with pickles or tomatoes on the side.