Bean can (vegan)

Bean preserve with peppers - A seasonal delicacy

When it comes to vegetable preserves, nothing is more comforting than a serving of flavorful beans, with crunchy peppers and a delicious sauce. This bean preserve recipe not only offers a tasty dish but also brings a piece of summer memories, when fresh vegetables are abundant. It is a simple recipe, yet with an impressive result, perfect for days when you want to enjoy flavor and health.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:

- 3 kg of beans (preferably white or red)
- 3 kg of peppers (find meaty peppers for a rich sauce)
- 1 kg of onion (for a sweet taste, choose white onion)
- 1 l of tomato puree (you can use homemade tomato puree for extra flavor)
- 1 l of oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can experiment with olive oil)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- Peppercorns (about a teaspoon)
- Salt, to taste (start with a tablespoon and adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon of salicylic acid (for preservation)

Ingredient details:

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, positively impacting digestive health. Peppers provide vitamins and minerals, while onions contribute beneficial antioxidants. Oil is essential for achieving a rich and aromatic sauce. Salicylic acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness of preserves.

Step by step for a perfect bean preserve:

1. Preparing the beans:
- Wash the beans well under cold running water.
- Soak them in cold water for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight. This step will reduce cooking time and aid digestion.

2. Boiling the beans:
- Drain the beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with water, ensuring the water exceeds the beans by about 3 fingers.
- Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are soft but not mushy.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
- Meanwhile, chop the onion into small cubes. In a large skillet, heat the oil.
- Add the onion and sauté until golden and soft. Remove it to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped peppers. Sauté until they become slightly soft and release their flavors.

4. Combining the ingredients:
- When the beans are cooked, add the sautéed peppers and onion to the pot with the beans.
- Pour in the tomato puree, then add salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir gently to avoid crushing the beans.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. If you want more sauce, add a little water.

5. Preserving:
- Add the salicylic acid and mix well.
- Using a ladle, fill the jars with the bean and vegetable mixture, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top.
- Seal the jars tightly and wrap them in a thick towel for 2-3 hours to cool gradually.

6. Boiling the jars:
- Once cooled, boil the jars for 30 minutes in a large pot to sterilize them. Ensure the water covers the jars.
- Remove the jars from the water and let them cool completely. Check if the lid is sealed by pressing the center – if it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed correctly.

Useful tips:

- If you want to add a smoky flavor, you can include some smoked sausages or diced pork, adding them along with the peppers.
- Another option is to replace part of the tomato puree with freshly squeezed tomato juice for an even more intense flavor.
- Make sure to use clean, sterilized jars to prevent contamination.

Serving:

The bean preserve with peppers can be served as a side dish with meats or as a main course, alongside a portion of warm polenta. It can also be enjoyed with a fresh salad or alongside a refreshing drink, such as mint tea.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
- It’s better to use dried beans, as they will have a better texture and won’t contain additives.

2. How can I check if the jars are sealed correctly?
- After the jars have cooled, press the center of the lid. If it doesn’t move, it’s sealed.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
- Of course! Carrots, celery, or even mushrooms can add extra flavor.

4. How long can I keep the preserves?
- Under proper storage conditions, preserves can be kept for up to a year.

This bean preserve recipe with peppers will not only enrich your pantry with tasty food but also bring you the joy of having a touch of summer sunshine every day. Prepare it with love, enjoying each step of the process! Enjoy your meal!