New beans

Fresh beans are a wonderful ingredient, rich in nutrients and full of flavor, that can be transformed into a delicious and comforting dish. This fresh bean recipe with vegetables is not only simple but also quick, making it ideal for a healthy family dinner or a meal with friends. I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, providing you with useful tips and information about each ingredient, so you can achieve a perfect result.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh beans
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery root (about 100 g)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for an extra splash of color)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 cup tomato juice (about 250 ml)
- A handful of fresh lovage (or 1-2 tablespoons of dried lovage)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or sunflower oil for sautéing

Nutritional Information

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are low in calories, with about 130 calories per 100 g, making them an ideal choice for a balanced diet. The added vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, enrich the dish with antioxidants and essential vitamins, providing extra flavor and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Beans
Start by washing the fresh beans thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities and ensure a clean taste for the dish. After washing the beans, place them in a large pot with water and boil for 15 minutes. This process will help soften the beans and reduce the overall cooking time.

2. Draining and Cooling the Beans
After 15 minutes of boiling, discard the water and rinse the beans again under cold water. This step will help remove substances that can cause gastric discomfort, providing you with a more easily digestible meal. It’s a useful trick that I always recommend for preparing beans.

3. Adding the Vegetables
In the same pot, add fresh water and bring the beans to a boil again. When the beans are half-cooked (about 15-20 minutes), add the vegetables: peeled and sliced carrots, diced celery, and chopped bell pepper. These vegetables will not only add a delicious taste but also a pleasant texture to your dish.

4. Incorporating the Tomato Juice
After about 10 minutes, when the vegetables have softened, add the tomato juice. This will bring a sweet and sour flavor and contribute to creating a flavorful sauce. Let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Finishing the Dish
Once the vegetables are cooked and the beans are tender, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped fresh lovage. This will add a fresh aroma and a note of brightness to your dish. If you don’t have fresh lovage, you can use dried lovage, but the flavor will be less intense.

6. Adjusting the Taste
Taste the dish and add salt and pepper to your preference. Be mindful of the amount of salt, especially if you used store-bought tomato juice, which may already contain salt.

Serving and Suggestions

This fresh bean dish with vegetables can be served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. A fresh green salad can perfectly accompany this dish, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors.

Variations

If you want to experiment with the recipe, here are a few suggestions:

- Beans with Meats: Add some cubes of pork or sausages for a heartier dish. Boil the meat together with the beans at the beginning to allow it to absorb the flavors.
- Spices: You can add spices like sweet or hot paprika, cumin, or oregano to diversify the flavors.
- Various Vegetables: Depending on the season, you can add zucchini, potatoes, or spinach to enrich the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, if you choose to use canned beans, make sure to rinse them well before use. In this case, you can skip the initial boiling step and add the beans directly with the vegetables.

2. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! It is a completely vegan recipe, rich in plant-based proteins.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A cold lemonade or a dry white wine are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

This fresh bean dish with vegetables is not just a simple recipe, but also a culinary experience that will bring you joy and comfort. So, dare to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!