Mashed beans
Mashed Beans with Onion Sauce - Classic and Tasty Recipe
Who doesn't love a plate of mashed beans? This traditional dish is not only food for the body but also for the soul. A simple recipe, yet full of flavor and history, that can be enjoyed at any time of the year, especially during fasting periods. Mashed beans pair perfectly with a fresh salad or pickles and evoke memories of family meals, stories told by the fireplace, and simple yet joyful moments.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 500 g white beans, large
- 6 large onions
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 2 teaspoons sugar
Step by Step:
1. Preparing the Beans:
- Rinse the beans under cold running water and soak them in water overnight. This step is essential, as well-soaked beans will cook much faster and more evenly.
- The next day, drain the beans and place them in a pot, covering them with fresh water. Add the bay leaves and put the pot on medium heat, allowing the beans to boil. Make sure to add water as necessary to prevent burning.
2. Boiling the Beans:
- When the beans are nearly cooked (about 40 minutes), add salt, one peeled onion cut into quarters, and the peeled garlic. These ingredients will flavor the beans.
- Continue boiling until the beans are soft and the water has significantly reduced. It's important not to add salt at the beginning of the boiling process, as this will hinder the cooking of the beans.
3. Blending the Beans:
- Once the beans are cooked, remove them from the heat, take out the bay leaves, and use an immersion blender to blend them until you achieve a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preparing the Onion Sauce:
- Peel the remaining 5 onions, wash them, and slice them thinly. In a pan, heat the oil and add the onions, sautéing them over medium heat until golden and soft.
- Dilute the tomato paste in a cup of water and add it to the onions, along with salt, pepper, and sugar. The latter will balance the acidity of the tomato paste and add a pleasant flavor. Let the sauce simmer until it reduces and thickens.
5. Assembling the Dish:
- On a platter or in individual bowls, place the mashed beans and pour the warm onion sauce over them. You can garnish with a few fresh parsley leaves for a more appealing look.
Serving Suggestions:
Mashed beans are typically served warm, alongside pickles, fresh salads, or crusty bread. You can also drizzle some olive oil on top for an extra flavor boost. This recipe pairs perfectly with a plum brandy or a dry white wine, which will complement the dish's taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, being very rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Consuming beans helps maintain digestive health and contributes to a balanced diet. It is a hearty dish, ideal for vegans and vegetarians.
Possible Variations:
- Beans with Bacon: Add a few slices of crispy bacon to the onion sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Beans: You can add chopped hot peppers to the onion sauce for a spicier taste.
- Herbed Beans: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mashed beans for a unique flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why soak the beans?
- Soaking helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.
2. Can I use canned beans?
- Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well and add them to the onion sauce, thus avoiding the boiling time.
3. How can I store mashed beans?
- Mashed beans store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
In conclusion, mashed beans with onion sauce is a simple yet extremely tasty recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at an informal lunch. This recipe will make you feel at home, even when you are far away. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500 g large white beans, 6 large onions, 1 tablespoon broth, salt, pepper, 3 cloves of garlic, 2 bay leaves, 4 tablespoons oil, 2 teaspoons sugar
