We have really been enjoying our pressure cooker. I think it really shines in a dish like this Split Pea and Chicken Stew. (I make this recipe multiple times a month with either lentils or peas.) In twenty minutes I have a dish that tastes like it cooked all day. I also love that I can sear in the same pot, unlike in my Tagine or slow cooker, making this an easy, one pot meal that the whole family enjoys. Combining the lentils or peas with a small amount of chicken really stretches the protein, making it very economical. And the small amount of pancetta is optional but adds a secret richness to the peas. The result: well, the next morning, Little Bird asked for “soup” for breakfast.

Rustic Split Pea and Chicken Stew Recipe

• 1 Tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 oz of diced pancetta (optional)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• salt and pepper
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 2 celery, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 oz mushrooms, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 cup of dried split green peas (or lentils)
• 3-4 cups of chicken broth or water (use the larger amount if you want it to be more like soup)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 sprigs of thyme
• 1/2 tablespoon of a dried spice and herb blend
• balsamic vinegar, for serving

In a pressure cooker, over medium heat, sauté the onions and pancetta (if using) followed by the carrots, celery and mushrooms, until soft, adding the garlic and any spices for the last minute. Add a splash of broth to deglaze, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan and mixing it into the broth. Add the rest of the broth, the split peas or lentils, chicken, and any herbs and spices. Give a quick stir and then cover and cook in the pressure cooker, according to the manufacturer’s instructions for 10 minutes at pressure. (At this point mine just starts to smell like split peas.) Allow the steam to release naturally (or quick release if you are inpatient like me.) Taste to check the seasoning, and adjust if needed. Serve with a drizzle of the balsamic vinegar.

This serves 4-6. (Or two hungry adults and one toddler, twice.)