Beaten beans for fasting

Today's appetizer is a true culinary delight, featuring a classic yet flavorful dish: mashed beans. This dish, known for its creamy texture and rich taste, is perfect for both a gathering with friends and a family meal.

Beans are a versatile ingredient, rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, and preparing them this way transforms them into a delicious appetizer. Moreover, it's a recipe suitable for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1-2 hours (depending on the type of beans)
Total time: 1-2 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients
- 500 g dried beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 4-5 large onions
- 50 ml sunflower or olive oil
- Half a head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Carrot slices and bay leaves (optional, for an extra flavor)

Preparing the beans
1. Soak the beans: A few hours before you start cooking, soak the beans in warm water. Ideally, do this in the evening, letting the beans hydrate overnight. This step not only shortens the cooking time but also aids in digestion.

2. Boil the beans: After soaking, drain the beans well and cover them with cold water. Bring them to a boil over high heat. After the first boil, remove them from heat, drain the water, and cover them again with hot water. Repeat this process three times. This helps remove natural toxins present in the beans.

3. Simmer: In the last water, reduce the heat and let the beans simmer until soft. If desired, add carrot slices, peppercorns, and bay leaves for extra flavor. Remember to remove the peppercorns and bay leaves before mashing.

Preparing the onions
4. Sauté the onions: In a pan, add the oil and sauté the sliced onions until golden and soft. This process will add sweetness and depth to the dish.

5. Add the tomato paste: Once the onions are ready, add the tomato paste and mix well to combine the flavors. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

Mashing the beans
6. Mash: After the beans are well cooked, drain them and mash them either with a blender or through a strainer. Add half of the sautéed onions and the crushed garlic, and mix well. The beans should become fluffy and smooth. Don’t forget, the oil from the onions will make the mashed beans creamier.

7. Season: Adjust with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer the beans to a serving dish. Top the mashed beans with the remaining sautéed onions.

Serving
Mashed beans can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside fresh or toasted bread. A side of olives or a tomato and onion salad will perfectly complement this meal.

Helpful tips
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to achieve different flavors. Additionally, adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin can transform the recipe into a unique delicacy.
- Storage: Mashed beans can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can revive them with a little olive oil and water to restore creaminess when reheating.
- Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are ideal for maintaining a healthy digestive system and managing weight.

Frequently asked questions
- Why should I soak the beans?: Soaking beans helps reduce cooking time and improves their digestibility.
- What type of bread pairs best?: A rustic bread or fresh ciabatta will complement the mashed beans perfectly.
- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, but the recipe will require adjustments. Make sure to drain and rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium.

Thus, this mashed bean recipe is not just a delicious appetizer, but also a way to bring a touch of tradition into your kitchen. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!