Giant bean

Giant Bean Bake - A Delicious Delicacy

Discover the authentic taste of giant beans with this simple yet delicious recipe that will transport you to a world full of flavors and culinary traditions. The giant bean is a special vegetable, appreciated for its creamy texture and rich taste, which pairs perfectly with the fresh ingredients you will use. This dish is ideal for a comforting dinner and can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it perfect alongside pickles or feta cheese.

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 500 g giant beans (dried)
- 50 g concentrated tomato paste
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 large onion
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: hot paprika for a touch of spice
- 300 ml lukewarm water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Beans
Start by soaking the giant beans overnight. This step is essential as it will hydrate the beans, making them much easier to cook. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with cold water, leaving enough space as the beans will swell.

2. Cooking the Beans
The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well under cold running water. If you have a pressure cooker, place the beans in it with fresh water and cook for about 30 minutes. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, boil the beans in a regular pot until they become soft but not fully cooked (about 45-60 minutes).

3. Preparing the Vegetables
While the beans are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the onion. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the diced carrot and celery, continuing to sauté everything for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become slightly tender.

4. Combining the Ingredients
Once the beans are ready, drain them and add them to the skillet over the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add the concentrated tomato paste and mix again to evenly distribute the ingredients.

5. Baking in the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the bean and vegetable mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top, and add 300 ml of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can add hot paprika if you desire a spicier flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the oven for about 45 minutes. Check occasionally, and if you notice the dish becoming too dry, you can add a little lukewarm water.

6. Serving
The giant beans are ready when a golden and appetizing crust has formed on top. You can serve this dish warm or cold, accompanied by pickles and feta cheese for a delicious contrast. Don’t forget to have a fresh baguette on hand, perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.

Practical Tips

- Substitutions: If you don’t have giant beans, you can use white or red beans, but the cooking time may vary.
- Vegan Friendly: This recipe is perfect for vegans as it contains no animal products.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add extra color and nutrition.
- Quick Cooling: If you have cooked more than you need and want to store the dish, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits

Giant beans are packed with plant-based proteins, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. They are low in fat and help maintain healthy digestion, making them ideal for those looking to adopt a balanced lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned beans?
While it is possible, I recommend using dried beans for better texture and more pronounced flavor.

- Can it be frozen?
Yes, giant beans can be frozen. Wait for them to cool completely, then divide them into portions and store them in freezer bags.

Recommended Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh vegetable salad or a savory cheese tart. Additionally, a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement your meal.

Enjoy the flavor of this giant bean recipe and let yourself be carried away by the delicious and rich tastes of the dish!