Mashed beans

Recipe for Mashed Beans with Roasted Peppers, Onion, and Garlic

Mashed beans are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. In this recipe, we will transform leftover cooked beans into a savory dish that will bring authentic flavor and an inviting aroma to your table.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g cooked beans (preferably canned or homemade)
- 2-3 tablespoons roasted bell pepper (for a more intense flavor, you can use grilled peppers)
- 1 small onion (about 100 g)
- 1 medium carrot (about 70 g)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil (for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the cooked beans are well-drained if using canned. If you used dried beans, they should have been cooked beforehand. The roasted bell pepper can be purchased from the store or you can prepare it at home by grilling or baking, which will enhance its aroma.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the onion and carrot. The onion can be diced, while the carrot can be grated or chopped. These vegetables will add texture and sweetness to your dish. If you want to keep the recipe simple, you can use leftover vegetables from a previous ratatouille.

3. Food processor: Place the cooked beans in the food processor. Add the onion, carrot, and roasted bell pepper. This mixture will bring exceptional flavor and vibrant color to your dish. Add the two peeled cloves of garlic. The garlic will provide an intense aroma, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Start the food processor and blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer a coarser texture, you can stop the processor before the mixture becomes completely fine. Once you have reached the desired consistency, add olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix again to incorporate the seasonings.

5. Serving: Mashed beans are delicious served warm or at room temperature. You can serve it on a slice of toasted bread or as part of a platter of appetizers. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color. This recipe pairs excellently with olives, feta cheese, or pickled vegetables.

6. Variations and suggestions: If you wish to experiment, you can add herbs such as thyme or basil to give the dish a different flavor. You can also try adding a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavors. Mashed beans go well with various types of bread, as well as a fresh salad.

Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They help maintain heart health and assist in controlling blood sugar levels. Additionally, they are low in calories, making mashed beans an ideal choice for those looking to maintain their weight.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can use red or white beans, but the taste and texture will change.
- How can I store mashed beans? You can store mashed beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Absolutely! This recipe is 100% vegan.

Mashed beans are not only a delicious choice but also a smart way to use leftover cooked beans. You may not have thought to transform these simple ingredients into a savory dish, but you will definitely want to do it again. Share this recipe with your friends and enjoy a healthy meal full of flavors!