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Giant Beans with Fresh Tomato, Mint, and Spicy Pepper

This vibrant dish, known as 'Gίgantes', showcases the rich culinary heritage of Greece with its hearty giant beans, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Traditionally served during summer, these beans are slow-cooked to absorb the flavors of fresh mint and the warmth of spicy pepper, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture. The dish is often enjoyed as a main course or meze, accompanied by crusty bread. The addition of Kalamata olives adds a briny depth, making it a perfect representation of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this dish captures the essence of summer gatherings and the joy of shared meals.

Main | Starter | Greek | Dairy-Free | Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Halal | Kosher | Nut-Free | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegan | Vegetarian | Bean Stew | Baking Dish | Oven | Pot | Giant Bean | Mint | Olive | Tomato | Baking | Boiling | Sautéing | Simmering | Family Gathering | Summer | Make-Ahead | Slow
Time to complete

Prep

15min

Cook

1h 30min

Wait

8h

Total

10h 15min

Ingredients (Makes 6 portions)

Beans

  • 500 g giant beans, soaked overnight

Aromatics

  • 3 fresh sage leaves (or ½ tsp dried, crushed)
  • 500 g onions, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

Tomato Sauce

  • 1,500 g ripe, firm tomatoes, grated

Herbs

  • leaves from 1 bunch of fresh mint, whole

Spices

  • a pinch of spicy pepper or cayenne

Olives

  • 100 g Kalamata olives, finely chopped

Oils

  • 180 ml olive oil + extra for serving

Seasonings

  • salt, freshly ground black pepper
  • zest from ½ lemon
  • a sprinkle of dried oregano
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 6
  • Protein: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 4
Directions

Prepare the Beans

  • 1. Drain and rinse the soaked giant beans.

Cook the Beans

  • 2. Place the beans in a large pot with 2 liters of water and add the sage. Bring to a boil over high heat, skimming off any foam.

Simmer the Beans

  • 3. Reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 1 hour, until the beans are tender. Add more hot water if necessary to keep them submerged.

Sauté Aromatics

  • 4. In a wide pot, heat half of the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic with salt and pepper for 13-14 minutes until caramelized.

Make Tomato Sauce

  • 5. Add the grated tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Preheat the Oven

  • 6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Combine and Bake

  • 7. Transfer the beans with their cooking liquid to a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over them. Ensure the liquid covers the beans; add more hot water if needed.

Add Flavorings

  • 8. Stir in the mint, spicy pepper or cayenne, and olives, then bake.

Finish Baking

  • 9. Bake for 20-30 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and the beans are nicely browned, finishing with a thick sauce.

Serve

  • 10. Serve the beans warm or at room temperature.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Cook the beans in a pressure cooker to save time.

Complementary Flavors

  • Add feta cheese or serve with a side of tzatziki for a tangy contrast.

Flavor Enhancements

  • Feel free to add other herbs such as parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.

Healthier Options

  • Use less olive oil or replace some with vegetable broth for a lighter dish.

Seasonal Tweaks

  • In winter, consider adding roasted root vegetables for added warmth and flavor.

Soaking Beans

  • For best results, soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly.