Bean stew
Bean Goulash - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor
If you are looking for a comforting, delicious, and nutritious recipe, bean goulash is the perfect choice. This dish will not only warm your heart but will also bring an explosion of flavors and colors to your table. Bean goulash is a dish that can be considered a culinary treasure, with deep roots in gastronomic tradition. It is made with simple ingredients but has a unique taste, and its secret is undoubtedly in how these ingredients are combined.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 3 handfuls of dried beans (approximately 300g)
- 1 red onion
- 1 white onion
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (or pepper)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- A pinch of cumin
- A pinch of thyme
- A pinch of oregano
- A pinch of tarragon
- 300g smoked sausage (or your preferred type of sausage)
- 200g bacon (or lard)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for sautéing
Preparation:
1. Soaking the beans: Start by washing the dried beans well under cold running water. Then, soak the beans in cold water, preferably from evening until morning. This process helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.
2. Preparing the ingredients: The next day, drain the beans. Peel and finely chop the onions. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can use a red onion for a sweeter taste and a white onion for a spicier note. Slice the sausage and bacon thinly so they brown evenly.
3. Sautéing the onions: In a large pot, add two tablespoons of oil and heat it. Add the chopped onions and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and slightly golden. This step is essential as sautéing the onions releases their sweetness, contributing to a richer final taste.
4. Adding the ingredients: Once the onions are ready, add the tomato paste, sausage slices, and bacon, along with the pressed garlic. Mix well to combine the flavors. This is where you can add a splash of hot pepper if you like a spicier taste.
5. Boiling the beans: Add the beans to the pot, then pour enough water to cover the ingredients. Add salt, pepper, and the other spices: cumin, thyme, oregano, and tarragon. These spices will add a complex flavor and a distinct character to your goulash.
6. Cooking: Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the beans are tender. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
7. Finishing the dish: When the beans are cooked, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Before serving, sprinkle finely chopped parsley and dill on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.
8. Serving: Bean goulash is served hot, usually alongside pickles or fresh bread. This combination brings a pleasant contrast between the rich taste of the goulash and the acidity of the pickles, making each bite even more delicious.
Useful tips:
- Soaking the beans: If you don't have time to soak the beans overnight, you can use the quick method: boil the beans for 2-3 minutes, then let them sit covered for an hour.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of sausages or add vegetables like carrots or peppers for a more colorful and nutritious dish. Also, if you want a creamier goulash, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream at the end.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Why do we need to soak the beans?: Soaking the beans reduces cooking time and helps eliminate substances that can cause gastric discomfort.
- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, but you will need to add them later in the cooking process, as canned beans are already cooked.
- What is the best side dish?: Pickles are ideal, but you can also add a summer salad for an extra touch of freshness.
Nutrition: Bean goulash is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, providing a good balance of nutrients. A serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of sausage and oil used. It is a fantastic choice for a healthy meal that will give you energy throughout the day.
This bean goulash is undoubtedly a dish that combines tradition with comfort, perfect for chilly days or a family dinner. By trying this recipe, you will surely bring a touch of warmth and joy to your table. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 3 cups of dried beans, 1 red onion, 1 white onion, 4-5 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of bell pepper paste, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of pepper, a pinch of: - cumin - thyme - oregano - tarragon, 300 g of smoked sausage, 200 g of bacon, fresh parsley, fresh dill, salt, oil
