Bean stew

Bean stew is a traditional dish, well-known and beloved, perfect for fasting days or for moments when you crave a hearty and flavorful meal. This simple and tasty recipe brings the flavors of fresh vegetables and the nutritional richness of beans to your plate. Over time, bean stew has been adapted in various ways, but its essence remains unchanged: a delicious combination of ingredients that blend perfectly.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:
- 1 can of beans (approximately 800 g) or dried beans, well soaked
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 head of garlic (approximately 10 cloves)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons of homemade ketchup (or store-bought)
- A handful of fresh parsley (or frozen)
- A handful of fresh dill (or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 bay leaves

Ingredient details:
- Beans: An excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. If using dried beans, make sure to soak them for at least 8 hours before cooking.
- Vegetables: Onion and garlic are the base of the flavors, while the peppers add color and sweetness. Choose fresh vegetables for a more intense taste.
- Oil: Olive oil adds extra flavor, but sunflower oil is a more neutral choice.
- Ketchup: You can use homemade ketchup for a more authentic taste, while the store-bought version is convenient and quick.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Chop the onion and garlic finely, and dice the peppers. This step is essential as uniform cutting helps with even cooking.

2. Heating the oil:
In a large pot, pour in the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Check if the oil is ready by adding a small piece of onion; if it sizzles, it's the perfect time to continue.

3. Sautéing the onion and garlic:
Add the onion and garlic to the hot oil. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the onion becomes glassy and transparent. The flavors will be released, preparing the way for the other ingredients.

4. Adding the peppers and ketchup:
Next, add the diced peppers and ketchup, mixing well. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the peppers release their juice and become slightly soft.

5. Including the beans:
Add the beans (drained if using canned) and a cup of warm water. Mix well, then let the mixture simmer on low heat, covered, for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finishing the dish:
With 5 minutes left before turning off the heat, add the chopped parsley and dill, as well as the bay leaves. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your preference.

7. Serving:
Once the stew is ready, remove the bay leaves and serve the dish hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for extra flavor.

Practical tip:
For an even more complex flavor, you can add some spices, such as sweet paprika or cumin. These will enhance the dish's aroma and give it a distinctive note.

Variations:
If you want to experiment, here are some interesting variations:
- Stew with sausages: You can add a few slices of smoked sausage to the mix for a more intense flavor.
- Spicy stew: Add hot peppers or chili flakes for a spicy taste.
- Vegan stew: Use soy sauce or tofu to add extra protein.

Recommended combinations:
Bean stew pairs wonderfully with a fresh summer salad or assorted pickles. A refreshing drink, such as herbal tea or lemonade, will perfectly complement this dish.

Nutritional benefits:
This bean stew recipe is rich in fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Additionally, the vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can use white, red beans, or even lentils, although the cooking time will vary.
- How can I store the bean stew? You can store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for later use.
- Can the stew be prepared in advance? Absolutely, it is even better the next day when the flavors have intensified.

Personal note:
This bean stew recipe holds sentimental value for me as it reminds me of family meals where each ingredient brought a story to the plate. Every bite is a combination of tradition, love, and care. Therefore, I encourage you to prepare it with the same love and invite your loved ones to enjoy it with you!

I hope this recipe brings you joy and enriches your meals! Enjoy your meal!