Bean stew

Bean stew is a beloved dish that brings together culinary tradition and the flavor of simple ingredients, transforming them into a comforting and nutritious meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a rich taste experience. Here’s how you can make a delicious bean stew, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 500 g beans (preferably white beans or borș beans)
- 3 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (concentrated tomato or tomato sauce)
- Salt, to taste
- Water (for boiling and diluting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: Start by soaking the beans in cold water the night before. It is essential to let the beans soak, as this helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the legumes.

2. Boil the beans: The next day, drain the beans and place them in a pot with fresh water. Boil the beans over medium heat until they become soft, about 30-40 minutes. Be sure not to add salt at this stage, as salt can hinder soaking.

3. Sauté the onion: In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden and translucent. This step is crucial, as caramelized onion will add depth of flavor to your stew.

4. Add the flour and cornmeal: Once the onion is browned, add the flour and cornmeal, stirring constantly. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the taste of raw flour. Adding cornmeal will give the stew consistency and a pleasant texture.

5. Season: Add the sweet and hot paprika, stirring continuously to release the spices' flavors. Then, add the boiled beans along with the cooking water, ensuring everything is well combined.

6. Dilute the tomato paste: Dilute the tomato paste in a small amount of water and add it to the mixture. This will enrich the dish's flavor and provide a beautiful color.

7. Season: Add salt and thyme, adjusting the quantities to your taste. These spices will highlight the flavors of the ingredients.

8. Transfer to the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and let it bake for 30 minutes. This step will help intensify the flavors and create a delicious texture.

9. Serve: The bean stew is served hot, accompanied by assorted pickles for a contrast of textures and flavors. If you're not fasting, you can add some smoked sausages or bacon to intensify the flavor.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can add vegetables such as carrots or celery while boiling the beans to enrich the flavor and add nutrients. You can also experiment with other herbs, such as parsley or dill, to customize the recipe to your preferences.

- Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious food. Rich in vitamins and minerals, they can support digestion and cardiovascular health.

- Frequently asked questions:
- Why soak beans before cooking?: Soaking reduces cooking time and helps eliminate compounds that can cause digestive discomfort.
- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt and preservatives.
- How can I store bean stew?: You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. It can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave.

Delicious Pairings

Bean stew pairs perfectly with homemade bread, polenta, or a fresh salad. Additionally, a dry red wine could complement the dish's flavors beautifully.

Personal Note

This bean stew recipe reminds me of family meals, where tradition and love for cooking came together to create special moments. I encourage you to enjoy every step of the cooking process and add your personal touch to the recipe!

Enjoy your meal!