Pea and Carrot Stew – Egyptian Bisilla Recipe

Pea and Carrot Stew – Egyptian Bisilla Recipe ????????✨

This Pea and Carrot Stew, or “Bisilla,” is a classic Egyptian dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and nutritious. Made with tender peas, sweet carrots, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this comforting stew is perfect for pairing with rice or bread. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or want to add meat, Bisilla is versatile and always satisfying.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Traditional Egyptian Flavor: A taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine.
  • Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables and optional protein.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt it to include beef, chicken, or lamb.

Ingredients for Pea and Carrot Stew (Serves 4-6)

  • 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 medium tomatoes, puréed
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp coriander
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Optional: 1 cup cubed beef, lamb, or chicken

How to Make Egyptian Bisilla

1️⃣ Cook the Meat (If Using)

  1. Heat 1 tbsp butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Brown the cubed meat on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

3️⃣ Prepare the Sauce

  1. Stir in the tomato paste and puréed tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and deepens in color.
  2. Add the cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.

4️⃣ Add the Vegetables

  1. Stir in the peas and carrots. If using meat, return it to the pot.
  2. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.

5️⃣ Simmer the Stew

  1. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables (and meat, if included) are tender.

6️⃣ Serve

  1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  2. Serve hot over white rice or with crusty bread.

Tips for Perfect Bisilla

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peas and carrots elevate the flavor, but frozen works well in a pinch.
  2. Add Potatoes: For extra heartiness, dice a potato and add it to the stew.
  3. Adjust Seasonings: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for a unique twist.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Egyptian Bisilla is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish. The balance of tender vegetables in a rich tomato sauce makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.


Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Without Meat)

  • Calories: ~180
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Carbs: 30g

Craving a taste of Egypt? Try this traditional Pea and Carrot Stew (Bisilla) and enjoy a comforting, wholesome dish packed with authentic flavor! ????????✨

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