Mashed beans
Today, I invite you to embark on an authentic Romanian culinary journey with a simple and delicious recipe for smashed beans, perfect for fasting days! This recipe not only reminds us of our traditions but is also a healthy and filling option. Why not enjoy the tastes of home, especially when our friend Alice has challenged us to cook Romanian every Monday? Let's see how we can prepare this delicacy!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4 servings
Ingredients needed
- 300 g of beans (choose white or yellow beans)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (for a more intense flavor, you can add a few extra cloves)
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the sauté:
- 1 medium onion (for a sweeter note, choose red onion)
- 200 g of vegetable stew or 150 g of homemade tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (an excellent choice for flavor)
Preparing the beans
1. We start with the beans. It is important to soak them the night before. This step will help reduce cooking time and make the beans easier to digest. Add the beans to a large bowl, cover them with water, and let them sit overnight.
2. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well under cold water. Put them to boil in fresh water, bringing it to a boil. Let it boil for 5-10 minutes, then drain the water again. This step helps eliminate substances that can cause digestive discomfort.
3. Repeat the rinsing and boiling process 2-3 more times, changing the water, until the beans are well-cooked and soft. This will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on the type of beans.
4. Once the beans are cooked, drain them and transfer them to a food processor or, for a more rustic result, use a sieve. Add 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil and mash the beans well until you achieve a smooth paste. If you prefer a coarser texture, do not mash them too much.
5. Now add the crushed garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well, allowing the flavors to blend. The garlic flavor will give a distinct and delicious note to the dish.
Preparing the sauté
6. In a pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the finely chopped or julienned onion over medium heat. Let it become translucent and soften, but do not let it burn, as it will become bitter.
7. After the onion has softened, add the vegetable stew or homemade tomato paste. Add a little water to achieve a pleasant consistency. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. The sweet paprika will provide a rich taste and a beautiful color to the sauté.
Assembling the dish
9. Serve the smashed beans in deep bowls, adding the sautéed onion on top. This contrast of textures and flavors will delight the taste buds.
10. For an extra touch of flavor, accompany with toasted bread. The crunchy bread will add a note of refinement and make this meal a truly memorable experience.
Useful tips
- Vary: You can also add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to enhance the flavor. Additionally, a splash of balsamic vinegar can provide a pleasant contrast.
- Beans: If you don't have time to soak them, you can use canned beans, but make sure they are well rinsed to remove excess salt.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, carrots or bell peppers are excellent options to enrich the sauté.
- How can I store the smashed beans? You can keep them in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Nutritional benefits
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them ideal for a healthy diet. They contribute to maintaining digestive health and help with weight control.
Conclusion
This smashed bean recipe is not just a simple meal but a true celebration of Romanian culinary traditions. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious family meal, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 300 g beans, 3-4 cloves of garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, for frying: one onion, vegetable stew or homemade broth, salt, pepper, sweet paprika
