Kosher baked beans

Baked Kosher Beans – A Delicious and Comforting Recipe for Lent

Who doesn’t love a warm, hearty meal that brings back memories of family gatherings? This recipe for baked kosher beans, which I learned from my friend Delia, is a true symbol of culinary tradition. Its origins are deeply rooted in Jewish culture, where every step in the preparation is an art, and the ingredients are treated with respect. In fact, it is said that the beans must be washed in 11 waters to be considered kosher, ensuring they are clean and full of flavor. This recipe is so tasty that it will surely make you wonder why you waited so long to make it!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g dried beans
- 1 medium celery
- 3 red bell peppers
- 3 onions
- 3 tomatoes
- 3 small carrots
- 3 bay leaves
- 300 ml tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
- Thyme (to taste)
- Dill (fresh or dried, according to preference)
- Salt (to taste)
- 150 ml oil

Preparing Baked Kosher Beans:

1. Selecting and washing the beans: Start by choosing the dried beans. It’s important to check each bean, removing any impurities or damaged ones. Then, place the beans in a large bowl and wash them thoroughly, changing the water 11 times. This step is crucial to ensure that the beans are clean and meet kosher standards.

2. Preparing the vegetables: After washing the beans, peel and wash the vegetables. Cut the celery, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and carrots into small cubes. These vegetables will add rich flavor and pleasant texture to your dish.

3. Combining the ingredients: In a large pot, add the washed beans, chopped vegetables, bay leaves, whole peppercorns, thyme, and dill. All these ingredients will blend perfectly in the oven, providing a delicious taste.

4. Adding the liquid: Pour the tomato juice over the vegetable and bean mixture, then add water, ensuring it is about three times the amount of the ingredients in the pot. This step will ensure that the beans have enough liquid to cook properly.

5. Baking: Cover the pot with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the ingredients to cook evenly. Place the pot in a preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for about two hours. It’s essential to check the water level from time to time, adding warm water if necessary. Remember: properly cooked beans will be soft and flavorful, while the vegetables will add a hint of sweetness.

6. Serving: Once the beans are well-cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them with pickles on the side; the combination of flavors will be simply superb. This traditional dish can be enjoyed alongside a slice of fresh bread or even as a side to other meals.

Practical tips for a perfect result:

- Check the beans: Make sure the beans are well-hydrated and free of impurities. This will affect both the taste and the final texture of the dish.
- Adjust the spices: Each of us has a different palate. Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preferences.
- Experiment with vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to vary the recipe.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 10 g

Nutritional benefits:

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They contribute to heart health and help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, the vegetables add antioxidants and essential vitamins for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why do we need to wash the beans in 11 waters?
This is a tradition stemming from the need to cleanse the beans of impurities, ensuring they are kosher. Additionally, this step helps improve digestibility.

2. Can I use canned beans?
Although the traditional recipe uses dried beans, you can opt for canned beans, but you will need to adjust the cooking time.

3. How can I adapt the recipe to be gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free, but make sure that all the ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.

4. What other dishes pair well with kosher beans?
This dish pairs well with fresh salads, rye bread, or pickles, but it can also be served alongside meat or fish dishes for a more complex meal.

A personal note: This recipe is not just about food; it’s about memories, about moments spent with loved ones at the table. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, baked kosher beans will surely create unforgettable moments. So, embrace tradition, enjoy cooking, and savor every bite!