Beaten broad beans

Beaten Beans: A Traditional Recipe with Soul

If you are looking for a recipe that brings a touch of warmth and comfort into your life, look no further! Beaten beans is a rustic dish, yet full of flavor, that will transport you straight to the heart of culinary traditions. This recipe has deep roots, symbolizing hospitality and good taste. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, rich in protein and fiber. Let’s discover together how to prepare it!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g beans (white or yellow)
- 1 large carrot
- 200 g country ham (or bacon, if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning (or your favorite spice mix)
- Sweet paprika and chili to taste
- Fresh basil or oregano
- 2 large onions
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Olive oil (or vegetable oil) for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the ingredients

1. Beans: If you have time, it is recommended to soak the beans overnight. This step not only reduces cooking time but also aids digestion. If you didn’t have the chance to soak them, don’t worry, you can continue without this step, but it will require more cooking time.

2. Carrot: Peel the carrot and cut it into thin rounds. This will add a sweet note and a pleasant aroma to the dish.

3. Ham: Cut the ham into small cubes. You can choose smoked ham or a less salty variant, depending on your preferences.

Cooking the beans

1. Put the beans to boil in a large pot, adding the carrot and ham. Cover with water and let it boil over medium heat. If you soaked the beans, it is enough to change the water once.

2. After about 30-40 minutes, check the beans. They should be tender but not too soft. Towards the end of cooking, add the seasoning to enhance the flavor. Avoid adding the seasoning too early, as it can hinder boiling.

3. When the beans are ready, drain them and keep a few tablespoons of the boiling liquid to adjust the consistency of the paste later.

4. In a large bowl, mash the beans with a mixer or potato masher, gradually adding the reserved liquid until you achieve a smooth paste. You can leave the carrot in the bean paste, as it adds a delicious flavor.

5. Add the sweet paprika, chili to taste, and the basil (or oregano). Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Preparing the sauce

1. In a pan, pour a few tablespoons of oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes golden and fragrant.

2. Add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste, stirring constantly. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

Serving the dish

1. Place the bean paste on a large platter, making a small indentation in the center. Pour the onion sauce over the top.

2. Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, on top for an extra splash of color and flavor.

3. Beaten beans are perfect served with pickles, which add a pleasant contrast of acidity. You can accompany the dish with a fresh green salad or a cabbage salad to complete the meal.

Tips and useful advice

- Variations: You can add different types of vegetables, such as peppers or zucchini, to diversify the recipe. Also, experiment with different types of meat or prepare a vegetarian version by completely omitting the ham.

- Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy!

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans? Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before use.
- How can I adjust the seasoning? Taste the dish along the way, adding spices gradually to achieve the desired flavor.

- Calories: A serving of beaten beans (approximately 250 g) contains around 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and ham used.

Beaten beans is a dish that invites you to the table, evoking pleasant memories and moments of conviviality. I hope this recipe brings you joy and warmth in every bite. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500g beans, 1 large carrot, 200g country ham, seasoning (vegetables), paprika and chili to taste, basil (or oregano), 2 onions, 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, oil for sautéing.