Bean stew like in Moldova

Bean stew like in Moldova: a traditional dish that combines authentic taste with the priceless flavors of natural ingredients. This simple and tasty recipe will take you to the culinary lands of Moldova, offering a comforting and nutritious meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 250 g white or yellow beans (preferably 'cook' beans)
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 bell pepper (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: The night before, soak the beans in cold water to hydrate them. This step is essential as it hydrates the beans and reduces cooking time. The next day, drain the beans, rinse them well under cold water, and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil. It is important to change the water 3 times during boiling to eliminate substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

2. Adding flavors: At the fourth water change, add finely chopped onion, sliced carrots, crushed garlic cloves, and the bay leaf. These ingredients will provide a rich flavor to your stew. If desired, you can also add diced bell pepper for extra flavor and a splash of color.

3. Cooking the stew: Let the beans simmer over medium heat, covered, for about 1 hour or until the beans become tender. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and if you notice the water level dropping, top up with hot water.

4. Finishing the dish: When the beans are nearly done, add sweet paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue boiling for another 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld perfectly.

5. Serving: Once the stew is ready, you can serve it hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs. This bean stew pairs wonderfully with warm polenta or homemade bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of beans, such as red or black beans, to create interesting variations of the recipe.
- Adding a few slices of smoked sausage or bacon can turn the stew into a heartier main dish, perfect for a festive meal.
- If you want a spicier version, feel free to add a finely chopped hot pepper.

In conclusion, bean stew like in Moldova is a simple and delicious recipe that offers comfort and satisfaction. With a little patience and love, you can create a dish that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every serving and savor the Moldovan culinary tradition!

 Ingredients: dried beans, one onion, 2 carrots, a few cloves of garlic, 2 bay leaves, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 3 onions, salt, pepper, sweet paprika.