Beans cooked with onion sauce

Beans Made with Onion Sauce

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of a well-cooked plate of beans, accompanied by a sweet and savory onion sauce? This recipe for beans made with onion sauce is not just a tasty dish but also an excellent way to bring a bit of tradition and comfort to your table. Ideal for cool days or a hearty lunch, beans are a rich source of plant protein, fiber, and vitamins, so it's time to put on your apron and get to work!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- 500 g white beans (washed and soaked)
- 5 onions (2 for boiling and 3 for sauce)
- 2 carrots
- 2 peppers (preferably red or green)
- 1 head of garlic
- 5 l water (for boiling)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1 pinch of pepper
- 1 pinch of thyme
- Salt (to taste)
- 250 g tomato paste
- 200 ml oil (for onion)
- 1 bunch of dill (chopped)

Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Beans
The night before cooking, wash the beans well and soak them in water, ensuring they are completely covered. This step is essential to reduce boiling time and eliminate natural toxins from the beans. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them again.

Step 2: Boil the Beans
Place the beans in a large pot, cover them with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Once the water reaches boiling point, drain it again, rinse the beans, and repeat this process two more times. Only after doing this, add fresh water and let the beans boil, uncovered, over medium heat for about an hour or until they start to break apart. This process will help eliminate harmful substances and improve the digestibility of the beans.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables
After the beans have started to boil, add the chopped onions, grated carrots, and diced peppers. Continue to boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. The vegetables will add flavor and sweetness to our dish.

Step 4: Seasoning
When the beans are almost cooked, add salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Let it boil for another 10-15 minutes, until the beans are fully cooked.

Step 5: Prepare the Bean Paste
Remove the beans from the pot, keeping a little of the boiling liquid for later use. Place the beans in a blender, add the crushed garlic, chopped dill, and a splash of oil. Blend the mixture well until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the consistency with a little of the reserved liquid, being careful that the paste is not too thick, as it will thicken as it cools.

Step 6: Onion Sauce
In a pan, heat 200 ml of oil and add the remaining finely chopped onions. Sauté the onions over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they become golden and soft. Then, add the tomato paste and let it cook for a few more minutes, stirring well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Assembly
On a platter, place the bean paste and pour the onion sauce on top. This contrast of colors and textures will make the dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Practical Tip
For an extra flavor boost, you can add some pieces of smoked meat (such as bacon or ham hock) during the boiling of the beans. Also, don’t forget to check the consistency of the bean paste; it should be creamy but not too thick.

Serving
This dish proves to be delicious alongside assorted pickles, which will add a pleasant contrast. A fresh summer salad or a cheese pie can perfectly complete the meal.

Nutritional Information
Beans are an excellent source of plant protein, also containing fiber that aids digestion. They are rich in B vitamins and minerals such as iron and magnesium, making them an essential nutritious food in vegetarian or vegan diets.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with vegetables like celery or zucchini, which will add even more flavor to the dish.

2. How can I store the bean paste?
The bean paste stores well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. You can also use it in sandwiches or as a filling for pies.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are vegan, and the dish can be enjoyed by everyone with confidence.

Variations
If you want a spicier version, add a little chili pepper to the onion sauce. You can also turn the recipe into a bean puree by adding more water and oil to achieve a smoother texture.

This recipe for beans made with onion sauce is not just a simple dish but a true celebration of flavors and aromas. Start preparing it today and enjoy a meal full of tradition and warmth!