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Baked Giant Beans in Tomato Sauce

Baked Giant Beans in Tomato Sauce, known as Γίγαντες πλακί, is a beloved dish hailing from Greece, particularly celebrated in the taverns of Athens. This hearty, rustic meal showcases the perfect harmony of tender giant beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Traditionally served as a main dish or a mezze, this recipe offers a comforting glimpse into Greek culinary culture. The dish embodies the Mediterranean spirit, highlighting the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients and the importance of communal dining. With a delightful balance of flavors and textures, it stands as a testament to the simplicity and depth of traditional Greek cuisine, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy family meal.

Main | Greek | Vegetarian | Baked Dish | Baking Dish | Oven | Pot | Carrot | Giant Bean | Onion | Tomato | Baking | Boiling | Sautéing | Simmering | Casual Gathering | Slow
Time to complete

Prep

15min

Cook

1h 30min

Wait

30min

Total

2h 15min

Ingredients (Makes 4 portions)

Main Ingredients

  • 250 g giant beans, soaked overnight
  • 250 g onions, finely chopped
  • 1 ripe tomato, finely chopped
  • 7.5 g tomato paste
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery leaves, finely chopped
  • ½ bunch celery, finely chopped
  • 7.5 g dried oregano, crushed
  • 5 g sugar
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 150-200 ml olive oil
  • 5 g vinegar
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 5
  • Protein: 6
  • Carbohydrates: 14
  • Fiber: 4
Directions

Preparation of Beans

  • 1. Drain the soaked giant beans and rinse them under cold running water.

Cooking Beans

  • 2. Place the beans in a pot with 1.5 to 2 liters of water and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat until tender, about 1 hour, skimming off any gray foam that forms.

Cooling Beans

  • 3. Once cooked, allow the beans to cool slightly in the cooking water to prevent them from splitting.

Sautéing Aromatics

  • 4. In a clean, dry pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until caramelized.

Combining Ingredients

  • 5. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the beans, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes.

Final Cooking

  • 6. Gently fold in the cooked beans and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes, ensuring the beans remain intact.

Baking Option

  • 7. For a crispier texture, transfer the mixture to a baking dish with the cooking liquid and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 15-20 minutes.
Cookix's Secrets

Flavor Enhancements

  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.

Ingredient Swaps

  • Substitute the giant beans with cannellini beans for a different texture.

Preparation Tips

  • Soaking the beans overnight not only reduces cooking time but also enhances their digestibility.

Seasonal Adjustments

  • Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Serving Tips

  • Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.