Bean stew in the summer

Bean stew in sauce - a traditional delicacy, full of flavor, that invites family meals. This simple yet tasty recipe combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the creamy texture of beans, resulting in a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. Let’s discover together how to prepare a bean stew that will delight your taste buds!

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g beans (preferably soaked or frozen)
- 2 large onions
- 1 carrot
- 200 ml tomato paste (or tomato juice)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Garlic (to taste)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil for sautéing (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- Optional: bacon or sausages for serving
- Optional: pickled cabbage for a taste contrast

Short story:
Bean stew has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a dish that has accompanied meals from various corners of the world. It is said that beans, an accessible and nutritious ingredient, have been used for centuries as a staple food, bringing communities together around the table. This recipe is not just a meal, but a family story, full of memories and beautiful moments.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Choose fresh onions with a shiny appearance for a more intense flavor. Peel the carrot and grate it on a fine grater. This step will add sweetness and a vibrant note to the dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pan or pot, add a few tablespoons of oil and put the chopped onion to sauté. Let it become translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. After about 3-4 minutes, add the grated carrot and continue to sauté the vegetables together for another 5-7 minutes until they become soft and aromatic.

3. Boiling the beans: If using frozen beans, make sure you wash them well beforehand. In a large pot, add about 2-3 liters of water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the beans and let them cook. During boiling, it is important to add hot water if the level drops too much.

4. Salting: When the beans are cooked and tender (about 1 hour), add salt to taste. This will help enhance the flavors and make the beans more pleasant to eat.

5. Adding the tomato paste: In a small bowl, mix the flour with the tomato paste until you obtain a smooth paste. This will thicken the stew and provide a creamy texture. Add the tomato and flour mixture to the pot with the beans and let it boil for a few minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

6. Finalizing the dish: Before removing the stew from the heat, add the bay leaves and crushed garlic. The garlic will add an irresistible aroma, but don't forget to remove its green core, which can be bitter. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.

7. Serving: The bean stew is served hot, alongside fried bacon or sausages, which add extra flavor. Pickled cabbage is a perfect accompaniment, providing a pleasant contrast between sweet and salty flavors.

Practical tips:
- Preparing the beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight to reduce cooking time. This will help achieve a finer texture.
- Vegan option: You can omit the meat and enjoy a purely vegetable stew by adding more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Tricks for an intense flavor: Add a teaspoon of sweet paprika while sautéing the vegetables for an extra flavor boost. Also, a dried rosemary leaf can transform the dish into a true delicacy.
- Storing leftovers: The bean stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor intensifies as it cools, making it perfect for quick lunches.

Frequently asked questions:
- What type of beans can I use? You can use any type of beans, but white or red beans are the most popular for this recipe.
- Can I add herbs? Absolutely! Herbs like thyme or dill pair wonderfully with bean stew.
- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet? Add extra vegetables and season appropriately for flavor.

This bean stew in sauce is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that will make you feel at home, no matter where you are. Enjoy your meal!