Mashed beans

Mashed Beans with Onions and Polenta: A Romanian Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Mashed beans is a traditional dish that has crossed generations, often associated with fasting meals as well as gatherings with family and friends. This simple recipe pays homage to flavors and textures, offering a delicious combination of creamy beans, sautéed onions, and warm polenta. Whether you are a cooking enthusiast or a novice, this recipe will enrich your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

- 500 g beans (preferably white or large beans)
- 4 onions (preferably white or yellow onions)
- 1 carrot (medium-sized)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 head of garlic (about 8-10 cloves)
- 4 tablespoons sunflower oil (for sautéing the onions)
- 5-6 tablespoons olive oil (for mashing the beans)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparing the Beans

1. Starting the process: The night before preparing the recipe, soak the cleaned and washed beans in cold water. This step is essential to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.

2. Boiling the beans: The next day, drain the beans and rinse them under cold water. Place them in a pot with cold water, covering them. Bring to a boil. When the beans start to pop, drain them again and rinse with cold water. This process helps eliminate substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

3. Cooking the beans: Put the beans back in the pot, add hot water, the two finely chopped onions, the grated carrot, and a teaspoon of salt. Let it simmer on low heat until the beans are fully cooked and very soft, about 30-40 minutes.

Preparing the Mashed Beans

4. Mashing the beans: Once the beans are cooked, drain them but keep the cooking liquid. Place the beans in a large bowl, add the peeled garlic cloves, and mash with an immersion blender. While mashing, gradually add the olive oil and, if necessary, a little salt. If the mixture seems too thick, add a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid to achieve a creamy consistency, but not overly runny.

5. Creating bean caviar: If you want to experiment, take a few tablespoons of the mashed beans, mix them with olive oil, add a little vinegar or lemon juice, and very finely chopped onion. You will get a delicacy called bean caviar, perfect for serving on toasted bread.

Cooking the Sautéed Onions

6. Preparing the onions: In a skillet, heat the sunflower oil. Add the remaining finely chopped onions and sauté over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Assembling the Dish

7. Serving: On a plate, place a disc of warm polenta (for those who wish, the polenta can be prepared in parallel with cooking the beans). On top, add a generous layer of mashed beans and finally the sautéed onions. You can garnish with a little freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color.

8. Serving suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with assorted pickles or toasted bread. It is ideal for a fasting meal but can be enjoyed anytime.

Tips and Tricks

- Beans: Choose quality beans, preferably from local sources. White beans or large beans have a better texture and a sweeter taste.
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor and enhanced nutritional benefits.
- Taste: Feel free to experiment with spices! A teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika added to the onion mixture can bring a touch of flair.
- Vegan version: This recipe is perfect for vegans, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.

Nutritional Benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. By consuming mashed beans, you not only enjoy a delicious taste but also contribute to digestive and cardiovascular health. Additionally, being a filling dish, it helps maintain a healthy body weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since canned beans are already cooked. Rinse the canned beans well before use.
- What other ingredients can I add?: You can add spices like cumin, coriander, or even chili flakes for an extra flavor boost.
- How can I store leftover beans?: Mashed beans store well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Gently reheat before serving.

Mashed beans are more than just a dish; they are a family story, a tradition that brings people together and creates memories. So, get ready to savor this delicacy and bring the authentic taste of traditional recipes into your home. Bon appétit!