Bean puree for fasting

Bean Spread for Lent – a simple yet flavorful delicacy

Bean spread, also known as mashed beans, is one of those traditional recipes that can turn a simple lent meal into a true feast of flavors. This recipe is not only accessible but also packed with nutrients, serving as an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Besides being nutritious, bean spread has an incredible taste, rivaling the most delicious meat dishes.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Soaking time: 8 hours (the night before)
Cooking time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the bean spread:
- 500 g dried beans
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch of greens (parsley or dill)
- Salt, pepper, vegetable seasoning, sweet paprika
- Olive oil or sunflower oil

For the onion sauce:
- 2 large onions
- Oil (about 3-4 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt, sweet paprika

Step-by-step preparation

1. Start the preparation
Begin by soaking the dried beans in cold water the night before you plan to cook them. This is a crucial step, as soaking helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans. Make sure there is enough water, as the beans will swell.

2. Cooking the beans
The next morning, drain the beans and place them in a large pot with fresh water, adding a bit of salt, the peeled and roughly chopped carrots, and the onion. Boil over medium heat until the beans become very soft – this process can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of beans. It's a good idea to check the consistency of the beans occasionally.

3. Preparing the bean paste
Once the beans are cooked, drain the water and let them cool slightly. Then, place the beans, carrots, and onion in a food processor. Blend, gradually adding water with vegetable seasoning, until you achieve a creamy consistency, but not too runny. It's best to stop blending when the paste is smooth and slightly airy.

4. Sautéing the garlic
In a saucepan, heat a little oil and add the two crushed garlic cloves. Let them sauté for a few minutes, being careful not to burn them, as the flavors can get spoiled.

5. Combining the ingredients
Add the bean paste to the saucepan, mixing well. Adjust the flavor with salt, pepper, and vegetable seasoning, and towards the end, add the finely chopped greens. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Preparing the onion sauce
To prepare the sauce, heat oil in a saucepan. Add the sliced onions and let them sauté until they become translucent. Add a little water, and when it evaporates, incorporate the sweet paprika and a tablespoon of tomato paste. Let it cook for about 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.

7. Serving
The bean spread is served warm, accompanied by the onion sauce, and is delicious with pickles, such as green tomatoes or cauliflower. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of freshness to the dish.

Nutritional benefits
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing a significant amount of fiber that aids digestion. They also contain B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants, making them beneficial for overall health.

Tips and useful advice
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a bit of cumin or chili flakes to the bean paste.
- Ensure the beans are well-cooked to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- You can experiment with different types of beans, such as white or red beans, to create different flavors.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a potato masher to achieve a more rustic texture.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Answer: Absolutely! If you use canned beans, you will need to rinse them well and boil them for 10-15 minutes to enhance their flavor.

2. How can I store the bean spread?
Answer: The bean spread can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water to restore its consistency.

3. Can it be frozen?
Answer: Yes, bean spread freezes very well. Make sure to place it in sealed containers to prevent ice crystals from forming.

This lent bean spread recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also fill you with energy thanks to its healthy and delicious ingredients. Try it and enjoy every bite!