Bean stew

Bean stew - a traditional Romanian dish, full of flavor and nostalgia, perfect for cool evenings or for a simple yet delicious meal. This bean stew recipe is not only nourishing but also easy to make, ideal for those looking for a quick and simple recipe. Get ready to discover a dish that will bring joy to the hearts of your loved ones!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g white beans (preferably dried beans or Romanian beans)
- 2 large onions
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Dried or fresh tarragon, to taste
- 1 parsley root
- 2 carrots
- 3-4 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil)
- Salt, to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by carefully selecting the beans, removing any damaged or unsuitable ones. Rinse the beans under cold running water, then soak them in warm water for 3-4 hours. This step is essential for achieving tender and easy-to-cook beans.

2. Boiling the beans: After the beans have soaked, drain the water and rinse the beans again. Place the beans in a pot with fresh water and boil them in 3 different waters. This process helps remove substances that can cause gastric discomfort. Ensure the beans are well-cooked but do not let them disintegrate. They should be slightly soft but retain their shape.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the onion, carrots, and parsley root. Chop the onion finely, slice the carrots into rounds or cubes, and cut the parsley root into small pieces. These vegetables will add rich flavor to your stew.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a skillet, heat the oil and add the onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes golden and translucent, then add the carrots and parsley root. Continue to sauté the vegetables for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to develop their flavor.

5. Combining the ingredients: Once the beans are cooked, add them to the skillet along with the sautéed vegetables. Add the tomato paste, tarragon, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients harmoniously.

6. Final boiling: Let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, covered with a lid. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the beans will absorb the rich taste of the vegetables.

7. Serving: Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley leaves on top for an extra touch of freshness. The bean stew is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Drizzle with a splash of cold-pressed olive oil for a refined taste.

Personalized suggestion: If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include some diced smoked sausages or bacon during the sautéing of the vegetables. These will add a smoky and savory note to your dish.

This bean stew recipe is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it an excellent choice for a family meal. Enjoy every bite and the memories it brings!