Gorgeous Red Giant Beans Plaki

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Servings

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour

Calories

293

The gorgeous red Gigantes plaki is a hearty main course meal. It is a baked preparation of white Giant beans that get the vibrant red color from the tomato sauce.

Gigantes beans, also known as large lima or butter beans, are a common ingredient in Greek cuisine. The subtle sweet taste and the meaty, creamy texture of the beans complement the tangy, smooth tomato sauce brilliantly. The onion & sugar sweetness balance the sourness. At the same time, the garlic and pepper add an earthy warmth while cinnamon and oregano infuse an enticing flavor.

The fibrous Giant beans are full of protein, vitamins, & minerals. It helps energize the body and keeps you full for longer. Furthermore, having low calories and low-fat content, they are excellent for weight loss. Both the beans and the tomatoes support good heart health by managing hypertension.

Invite your family and friends for a Sunday lunch. Serve the gorgeous red Giant beans plaki alongside sourdough bread. This vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish satisfies the palate. It also works as a delicious break from the usual meat and fish meals.

Ingredients

400g dried Giant beans
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
2 medium-sized onions (chopped finely)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 Tbsp tomato paste
400 g | 1 can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1 pinch of ground cinnamon
1 tsp sugar
2 tsp dried oregano

For serving

1/4 cup parsley (freshly chopped)
1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

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Directions

Rinse the beans and soak them overnight (6 hours) in a bowl of water.
Then, drain and transfer to a pot. Pour water & bring it to a boil over high heat.
Once the water starts bubbling, cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes until just tender.
Drain the water and transfer to a bowl.
Drizzle 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, season with salt, mix well and keep aside.
Preheat the oven to 350° F.
Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and cook for 7 minutes until softened. Stir frequently.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sea salt, black pepper, cinnamon, sugar, and dried oregano. Cover and cook for 10 minutes on medium-low heat while stirring at regular intervals till the consistency thickens.
Add the beans and combine well for a minute.
Transfer the saucy beans mixture into a baking dish. Put it in the preheated oven & bake for 45 minutes at 350° F.
Finally, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Recipe Note

Serve the gorgeous red Giant beans plaki garnished with crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley!

• When boiling the white beans, avoid adding salt as the skin turns tough. Also, since the beans will be baked, boil them till they are slightly tender. Do not let them go too soft.

• Since tomato is a key ingredient in the sauce, it is vital to use the best quality tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are a good option. Besides using crushed canned tomatoes, you can also use fresh tomatoes after blending them to puree.