Mashed beans in a nest

Beaten beans in a nest – a delicious and comforting recipe

Today, I propose a recipe for beaten beans in a nest, a simple yet flavorful dish that will remind you of warm and welcoming meals from your childhood. This recipe is not only nutritious but also very versatile, as it can be adapted to your preferences. When cooking becomes an art, each ingredient adds a personal touch, and every step brings you closer to a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g dried beans
- 150 ml oil (preferably olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 50 g tomato paste
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1-2 onions
- Ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 package of puff pastry

Step 1: Preparing the beans

Start by cleaning the beans of any impurities and rinsing them well. Then, soak the beans in cold water for 4-8 hours, preferably overnight. This process not only helps the beans rehydrate but also enhances their flavor.

Helpful tips:
- If you're in a hurry, you can use canned beans, but the taste won't be as intense.
- Soaking the beans reduces cooking time and aids digestion.

Step 2: Cooking the beans

After the beans have soaked, rinse them well under cold running water. Place the beans in a large pot, add fresh water, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Change the water twice during cooking to remove any substances that might cause digestive discomfort. Cook the beans for about 60 minutes until they become soft.

Step 3: Preparing the beaten beans

Once the beans are cooked, drain them and let them cool. Use a mixer to mash the beans, gradually adding 100 ml of oil, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste with a slightly rustic texture. This is where you can add a little lemon juice or a few parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Step 4: The tomato sauce

In a pan, heat the remaining oil and add the tomato paste. Sauté for a few minutes, then dilute with a little water to achieve a thinner sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will add a layer of moisture and flavor to your dish.

Step 5: Preparing the puff pastry nests

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut out round shapes slightly larger than the bottoms of some bowls. Place each shape upside down on the bowls to form nests. Bake them in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Assembling the dish

Once cooled, remove the pastry nests and generously fill them with the beaten beans. Pour the sauce over the beans, and top with sliced and sautéed onions until golden.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the beaten beans in a nest warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or creamy polenta for a complete and comforting meal. This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They help maintain digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well to remove added sodium.
2. What other spices can I add?
Cumin and paprika add a special flavor.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan and requires no changes.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
Carrots and celery are excellent for enriching the flavor.

Personalized version:
For a touch of originality, you can add feta cheese or ricotta on top of the beaten beans. This way, you'll achieve a delicious contrast between creaminess and crunch.

This recipe for beaten beans in a nest is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that will transport you to a world of flavors and textures. I hope you enjoy every step of the preparation and every bite! Bon appétit!