Gigantes Recipe Using Canned Beans
Gigantes Plaki is a Greek dish featuring creamy giant beans simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. It's a hearty and nourishing vegetarian option that showcases the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Colander
- Large pot
- Skillet or Dutch Oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving Bowls or Platter
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving utensils
Ingredients
- 500 grams dried butter beans
- 80 milliliters olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 bunch parsley (or 1 celery)
- 400 grams canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 350 milliliters water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 vegetable cube
Instructions
- Rinse and drain the canned butter beans under cold water. Set aside.
- Chop the onion, carrots, bell pepper, garlic, and parsley (or celery).
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the diced carrots, bell pepper, and chopped parsley (or celery). Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Crumble the vegetable cube into the mixture and stir.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Gently fold in the canned butter beans, ensuring they are well-coated with the tomato and vegetable mixture.
- Let the Gigantes simmer over low to medium heat for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the beans to absorb the flavors.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
- Once the beans are tender and the flavors have melded, remove the pot from heat.
- Serve the Gigantes warm, optionally garnished with additional fresh parsley.