Mashed beans

Mashed beans: a traditional recipe with an unforgettable taste

Mashed beans is an emblematic dish of our cuisine, full of flavor and nostalgia. This mashed bean recipe is not just a simple meal; it is a symbol of conviviality, often served at festive meals or on cool days when we want to warm our souls. With a creamy texture and rich taste, mashed beans are perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step, so we achieve a fantastic result!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Soaking time: 8-12 hours (from evening to morning)
Cooking time: 60-90 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 1 kg dried beans, preferably white or yellow
- 3 medium onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 medium celery
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (adjustable to taste)
- 8 onions for frying (for an intense flavor)
- Sunflower or olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

1. We start with soaking the beans: Wash the beans well under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, place the beans in a large bowl and add enough cold water to cover them completely. Let the beans soak overnight. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and achieve a finer texture.

2. Cooking the beans: The next day, drain the beans and rinse them again. Place them in a large pot with fresh water and bring to a boil. It is recommended to change the water three times in the early boiling stages to eliminate natural toxins from the beans. This not only helps digestion but also improves the final taste.

3. Adding the vegetables: After the beans have boiled for about 30 minutes, add the chopped vegetables (carrot and celery). These vegetables will not only enrich the flavor of the beans but will also provide additional nutrients. Continue boiling until the beans become soft and easy to mash, about 30-60 minutes.

4. Cooling the beans: Once the beans are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. It is important not to throw away the cooking liquid – you can use it later to adjust the consistency of the mashed beans.

5. Preparing the fried onions: In a pan, add the oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes golden and caramelized. This step is essential, as the fried onion will add a deep and savory flavor to the dish. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning.

6. Mashing the beans: In a mixer, add the cooled beans, crushed garlic, fried onion, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth paste. If it is too thick, you can add a little of the cooking liquid to reach the desired consistency.

7. Serving: Transfer the mashed beans to containers or bowls and cover with kitchen foil to retain moisture. Let them cool completely at room temperature, then you can refrigerate them to firm up a bit.

8. Garnishing: When serving, you can add a few drops of olive oil on top, some fried onions, or even a few parsley leaves for a more attractive appearance.

Tips and useful advice:

- Types of beans: White or yellow beans are the most popular for this dish, but you can also experiment with red or black beans for a variation in color and taste.

- Varied flavors: Adding cumin or paprika can provide an interesting taste and a more complex aroma.

- Perfect combinations: Mashed beans pair perfectly with toasted bread, polenta, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a fresh summer salad for a light and healthy lunch.

- Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B), and minerals such as iron and magnesium. They contribute to maintaining digestive health and controlling cholesterol levels.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, it is a quick option, but the taste will be different. If using canned beans, make sure to rinse them well to remove salt and preservatives.

2. How can I store mashed beans?
Mashed beans can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them to have them on hand anytime.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, mashed beans are a healthy and delicious vegan dish.

This mashed bean recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen. So, prepare your ingredients and let's enjoy this delicacy!