Beans stewed with potatoes and tomatoes

Stewed beans with potatoes and tomatoes – A recipe that blends tradition with innovation

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting meal that brings a touch of nostalgia and flavor in every bite? Stewed beans with potatoes and tomatoes is not just a tasty dish, but also a recipe that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or for those moments when you want to enjoy a healthy, yet easy-to-prepare meal.

The history of this recipe has its roots in home cooking, where fresh ingredients and slow cooking are key to achieving rich flavors. Yellow beans, also known as string beans, are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish provides you with the energy you need to face the day.

Ingredients:

- 300-400 g frozen yellow beans
- 2 large potatoes
- 1 carrot
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 white onion
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup of red wine (choose a quality wine for better flavor)
- Chopped parsley (dried or fresh)
- Salt, pepper, basil, a little thyme, and sweet paprika
- Olive oil (for sautéing)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small cubes. This will help them cook evenly. If using frozen beans, take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Also, chop the onion, carrot, and garlic. You can use a food processor to save time, but you can also chop them manually to maintain a rustic texture.

2. Cooking the vegetables
In a large pot or cauldron, add the cubed potatoes and frozen yellow beans. Pour in a little water, just enough to cover the ingredients. This step will help the potatoes cook evenly and thaw the beans.

3. Sautéing the aromatic vegetables
In a pan, add olive oil and let it heat up. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and garlic, and sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent. This will bring out the flavors and give your dish a special taste.

4. Combining the ingredients
Once the aromatic vegetables are ready, add them to the pot over the potatoes and beans. Pour in enough water to cover all the ingredients. Season with a spoonful of vegetable seasoning and the remaining spices: salt, pepper, basil, thyme, and sweet paprika. Gently stir to combine the flavors.

5. Adding the tomatoes and wine
Cut the tomatoes into cubes or puree them using a food processor. Add them to the pot, along with the cup of red wine. The wine will add a deep and complex note to the dish. Let everything simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. If you notice that the water is reducing too much, add a little hot water.

6. Final cooking
After about 40 minutes, the dish should be ready, and the vegetables should be tender. Check the consistency, and if necessary, adjust the seasoning to taste.

7. Serving
Once the dish is ready, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can serve the stewed beans with potatoes and tomatoes alongside a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta. This combination will add extra flavor and texture.

Practical tips:

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can replace the red wine with white wine or omit the alcohol by adding more water or vegetable broth.
- Serving: This dish is delicious both hot and cold. If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge and reheat them the next day.
- Side dishes: A simple green salad or a red cabbage salad can perfectly complement this dish, offering a fresh and crunchy contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

Yellow beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. This recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but also provide essential nutrients for your health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use fresh beans instead of frozen?
Yes, but make sure to boil them beforehand, as frozen beans are already partially cooked.

- What wine should I choose for the recipe?
Choose a dry red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to add depth and complexity to the dish.

- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to turn it into a vegan version, make sure to use wine without animal-derived ingredients.

Stewed beans with potatoes and tomatoes is a dish that will not only remind you of family meals but will also turn every meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. So get your ingredients ready, unleash your creativity, and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!