Name: Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2-3 celery stalks, finely diced; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; ½ small jalapeño, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon chipotle paste; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cans (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup (250 ml) vegetable stock; 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 tablespoon dark cocoa powder

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If you’re craving a comforting, wholesome meal that brings together fresh flavors and hearty textures, you’ll absolutely adore the Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe. This iconic Greek dish combines tender peas and potatoes simmered in a rich, lemony tomato sauce, delivering a perfect balance of earthiness and brightness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make but bursting with flavor, making it a beloved staple in Greek kitchens that’s just waiting to become a favorite in yours.

Ingredients You'll Need

Inside a black cooking pot, there is one main layer of small chopped vegetables including red and green bell peppers, white and light green onions, and celery, all mixed and slightly cooked with a soft texture. In the center of the vegetables, there is a small pile of different spices and a dark brown paste-like ingredient, which adds a rough and powdery texture on top of the chopped vegetables. The pot is placed on a white marbled countertop. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to make this stew is a breeze because all the ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important to build the layers of flavor and texture you’ll love. Each element has its own role, whether it’s the sweetness of fresh peas, the creaminess of potatoes, or the zesty punch from lemon juice that makes the dish unforgettable.

Fresh or frozen green peas: The star, bringing sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.

Potatoes: Choose waxy potatoes for that perfect tender bite that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when gently sautéed.
Garlic: Gives a fragrant boost that complements the veggies wonderfully.
Tomatoes or tomato paste: Provides a rich, tangy base for the stew’s sauce.

Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing that creates a silky mouthfeel.
Lemon juice: Injects a fresh brightness that lifts the whole dish.
Dill or parsley: Fresh herbs add a lovely aromatic finish.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a good splash of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook them gently until they turn soft and translucent; this step creates the sweet, savory foundation for the stew. Then, add minced garlic and give it just a minute to release its wonderful fragrance without burning.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Build the Sauce

Next, stir in your fresh or canned tomatoes—or a bit of tomato paste if you want a thicker sauce—and let it simmer briefly. This is where the sauce starts to develop its rich, tangy appeal that will brighten the dish later with lemon.

Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Peas

Now add diced potatoes and fresh or frozen peas to the pot. Stir everything gently so the potatoes can absorb all those lovely tomato flavors as they cook. Cover and let it simmer on low, allowing the potatoes to become perfectly tender and the peas to retain a bit of their snap and sweetness.

Step 4: Season and Finish with Lemon and Herbs

When the veggies are tender, season the stew with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Finally, stir in chopped dill or parsley for an herby lift that feels just like a breath of Greek springtime. Let the flavors meld for a couple more minutes, and your Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe

A deep blue bowl filled with thick chili that has a rich reddish-brown sauce mixed with visible red and black beans, small pieces of red and green peppers, and bits of tomato. The chili is garnished with fresh bright green cilantro leaves scattered on top. The bowl sits on a dark surface next to three yellow triangular tortilla chips on the right side, along with two halved bright green limes and some fresh cilantro. The background is a white marbled texture with a beige cloth featuring black stripes partially visible on the upper left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley not only makes this stew look inviting but also adds the perfect aromatic note. Some crumbled feta on top is also incredible if you’re looking for a touch of salty richness that complements the stew’s bright flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce or a simple Greek salad to add freshness and crunch on the side. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish to round out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe in individual bowls garnished with a lemon wedge for an interactive meal experience, or plate it on a shallow dish and drizzle with a little extra olive oil and herbs for a beautiful, rustic presentation that feels authentically Greek.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers just as delightful, if not better, than the freshly made version.

Freezing

You can freeze your Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe without losing any of its charm. Use a freezer-safe container and keep it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for an easy future meal.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if the stew feels too thick after refrigeration, stirring well to restore that perfect stew consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas in the Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen peas work wonderfully here, especially when fresh peas are out of season. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay bright and retain their sweetness.

What type of potatoes are best for Arakas Latheros?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture without falling apart during the simmering process.

Is this stew typically served hot or cold?

Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe is traditionally served hot, making it perfect for cozy dinners. However, some people enjoy it at room temperature as well, especially during warm weather.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! The recipe is naturally vegan as it relies on vegetable ingredients without any animal products. Just be mindful of your garnishes—stick to fresh herbs instead of cheese if you want to keep it entirely plant-based.

How can I add more protein to this stew?

To boost protein, you can stir in some cooked chickpeas or white beans. They integrate seamlessly and add extra heartiness to the dish while maintaining its classic flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both wholesome and utterly satisfying, the Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s simple, bright, and nourishing in all the right ways, offering a delicious glimpse into authentic Greek home cooking. I promise, once you taste it, it might just become one of your go-to comfort meals too!

Greek Peas and Potato Stew (Arakas Latheros) Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need