Stew with green onions and beans

Delicious Bean Stew with Green Onions

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, it is always comforting to return to simple yet flavorful dishes. This bean stew with green onions combines humble yet wholesome ingredients to create a dish that not only delights your taste buds but is also nourishing. The beans, rich in protein and fiber, pair perfectly with the fresh flavors of the vegetables, while the green onions add a note of freshness and vibrancy. Let’s embark on this recipe together, step by step!

Ingredients:
- 650 g white beans (ideal for a creamy texture)
- 2 small carrots (choose younger carrots for intense sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper (you can opt for red or yellow for vibrant color)
- A healthy bunch of green onions (try to choose fresh onions with green leaves)
- 250 ml tomato juice (freshly squeezed tomato juice is even more delicious)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for sautéing (extra virgin olive oil is an excellent choice for richer flavor)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by selecting the white beans. Check for any damaged beans. Place the beans in a large bowl, cover with cold water, and let them soak for 4-6 hours or ideally overnight. This step will help the beans cook faster and more evenly.

2. Boiling the beans: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the beans under cold running water. Place the beans in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. It is important to change the water two or three times to reduce substances that can cause digestive discomfort. Boil the beans until tender, about 30-40 minutes, then drain and set aside.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, focus on the vegetables. Chop the green onions finely, dice the bell pepper, and grate the carrot on the large grater. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also a beautiful palette of colors to your dish.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of oil (about 2-3 tablespoons should be sufficient). Once the oil is hot, add the green onions, bell pepper, and carrot. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper, then let the vegetables sauté over medium heat for about 10 minutes. You want the vegetables to become soft but not overly browned, maintaining their texture and freshness.

5. Adding the beans and tomato juice: Once the vegetables are ready, add the boiled beans and tomato juice to the pot. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Here you can adjust the taste by adding more salt or pepper, as preferred.

6. Baking: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 160°C. Let the stew cook for about an hour. This time will allow the flavors to meld and develop, giving you a delicious dish.

7. Serving: Once the stew is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. It is wonderful served warm, alongside pickles for a tangy contrast. Pickled peppers or cauliflower are excellent choices to complement this dish, adding extra texture and flavor.

Practical tips:
- Use high-quality dried beans for the best results. Fresh beans can make a significant difference in taste.
- If you enjoy a more intense flavor, you can also add a few bay leaves or a pinch of sweet paprika during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- This recipe is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare it a day ahead, and it will taste even better the next day.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They are low in fat and help maintain healthy digestion. The added vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini or eggplant, which pair well with this dish.

3. How can I make this stew vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to enrich it, you can add mushrooms for a deeper flavor.

This bean stew with green onions is not only a tasty dish but also a recipe that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Enjoy it with your loved ones, sharing moments of joy and delicious flavors!