Nahit (russian Peas) Recipe

Nahit, also known as Russian Peas, is a hearty and delicious dish that originated in Russia. It is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations and continues to be enjoyed by many people today. The dish consists of tender peas cooked with meat, enriched with a savory sauce, and then baked to perfection.

Fun fact: Peas have been cultivated for thousands of years and are one of the oldest cultivated crops. They are highly nutritious and versatile, making them a popular ingredient in different cuisines around the world.

To prepare Nahit, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound of Russian peas
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- Water, enough to cover the peas
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 pound of brisket of beef or back or neck of fat chicken
- 2 tablespoons of fat (such as butter or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar

Now, let's begin cooking this delicious dish:

1. Place the Russian peas in a granite kettle or a large pot. Add the salt and enough hot water to more than cover the peas. Allow the peas to soak for at least twelve hours or more. This soaking process helps to soften the peas and reduce their cooking time.

2. Drain the soaked peas and return them to the kettle. Cover the peas with boiling water and let them cook for about fifteen minutes.

3. After fifteen minutes, add the baking soda and the brisket of beef, or back or neck of fat chicken, to the kettle. The meat will add flavor and richness to the dish. Let the mixture cook slowly until the peas are tender and the meat is cooked through. This may take around 1-2 hours, depending on the type of meat and the desired tenderness of the peas.

4. While the peas and meat are cooking, prepare the savory sauce. In a separate pan, melt the fat over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and brown sugar to the pan. Stir the mixture continuously until it turns brown and forms a roux.

5. Gradually, add one cup of the liquid from the peas to the roux. Continue stirring the mixture until it thickens and becomes smooth. This will create a delicious gravy-like sauce that will enhance the flavor of the dish.

6. Pour the sauce over the cooked peas and meat, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to cook thoroughly for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature (around 350°F or 180°C). Transfer the cooked Nahit to a casserole dish and bake it in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes. This step helps to further meld the flavors and create a delicious crispy crust on top.

Once the Nahit is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, and it pairs well with fresh bread or a side salad.

Nahit is a wholesome and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. The tender peas, succulent meat, and savory sauce create a harmonious balance of flavors. It is a dish that warms the soul and brings people together.

Similar dishes to Nahit include other traditional Russian recipes like Kasha, which is a porridge made with grains like buckwheat or barley, and Borscht, a hearty beet soup. These dishes share the same comfort food appeal and are enjoyed by many Russian households.

So, next time you're craving a taste of Russia, why not try your hand at making Nahit? It's a rewarding and delicious dish that will transport you to the rich culinary traditions of this vibrant country.