Bean stew

Bean stew: A classic, comforting recipe full of flavor

Bean stew is a traditional dish, rich in taste, that has warmed the hearts of many generations. This simple yet delicious recipe transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. The rich aroma of the beans, enhanced with vegetables and spices, creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this meal is always welcome. Let’s discover together how to prepare the perfect bean stew!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g small white beans
- 2 onions
- 1 red bell pepper (or green, as preferred)
- 1 carrot
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of fresh tarragon
- 1 teaspoon of fresh parsley
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- thyme, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- baking soda or sugar (optional, to avoid digestive issues)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the beans:
Start by selecting 500 g of small white beans, making sure to remove all impurities and stones. Place the beans in a large bowl with cold water to soak. It is recommended to soak the beans for 8-10 hours, changing the water at least twice during this time. This process helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.

2. Boiling the beans:
After soaking, rinse the beans well and place them in a large pot with water and, if desired, a teaspoon of baking soda or sugar. This trick will help avoid digestive discomfort. Bring to a boil, then discard the water and repeat the process twice. This will ensure the beans are well prepared for further cooking.

3. Adding spices:
After draining the water twice, add fresh water and bring the beans to a boil. Add the granulated spices and thyme, letting it simmer over medium heat. It is important not to add salt too early, as it can hinder the cooking of the beans. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes to check if the beans are nearly done.

4. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, finely chop the two onions, bell pepper, and carrot. In a skillet, add a little oil and sauté the vegetables, stirring constantly. Add the crushed garlic and the two tablespoons of tomato paste to enhance the flavor. Sauté everything for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become translucent and fragrant.

5. Combining the ingredients:
When the beans are nearly cooked, add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the pot with the beans. Let it simmer together for 10 minutes for the flavors to combine perfectly. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, along with the chopped tarragon.

6. Baking:
After boiling, transfer the bean stew to an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes at 180°C. This step helps concentrate the flavors and achieve a delicious texture.

7. Finishing:
Finally, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. The bean stew is now ready to be served!

Serving suggestions:
Bean stew is usually served warm, accompanied by creamy polenta and pickles. Combining these elements will yield a balanced and flavorful dish. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, depending on your preferences.
- Bean stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavor will become even richer as it sits.
- An interesting variation is to add some slices of smoked sausage during boiling for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional information:
This bean stew recipe is rich in plant-based proteins and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Additionally, beans are rich in B vitamins and minerals such as iron and magnesium. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy meal.

Surely, this bean stew recipe will become a favorite in your family. Don’t forget to share it with loved ones and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!