Greek big beans, also known as gigantes, are large, nutty-flavored beans commonly used in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. These beans are a staple ingredient in many traditional Greek dishes, such as gigantes plaki (braised gigantes with tomato sauce), fasolada (bean soup), and revithada (chickpea and gigantes soup). When cooked properly, Greek big beans offer a creamy, slightly firm texture and a distinctive flavor that can be complemented by a variety of Mediterranean herbs and spices. In this article, we will explore some of the best recipes for cooking Greek big beans, providing you with step-by-step instructions and tips to help you create delicious and authentic Greek dishes using these nutritious and versatile legumes.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
MY BIG FAT GREEK BAKED BEANS
I used to believe the best baked beans came from Boston or Texas, but ever since I discovered this very hearty giant bean casserole, I have to give it to the Greeks. 'Big Fat' refers not only to size of the beans, but also to the huge flavor of this dish. Use the largest beans you can find: Gigante beans are the best, but Corona and lima beans also work great. Serve alongside grilled meat or simply with extra feta for a great vegetarian main.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Side Dish Beans and Peas Baked Bean Recipes
Time 10h5m
Yield 10
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Place Corona beans in a large bowl. Cover with a generous amount of water and let soak, 8 hours to overnight.
- Drain beans into a pot. Add 3 quarts fresh water and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, stir, and reduce heat to medium. Simmer until just tender but not too soft, 45 to 60 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Drain beans and spread into a large casserole dish. Add red onion, garlic, tomato sauce, tomato paste, honey, 1/2 cup dill, olive oil, salt, pepper, cayenne, vinegar, and water. Mix until well combined. Place dish onto a lined baking sheet to catch any spills.
- Bake in the preheated oven until top is bubbling and caramelized and beans are soft, about 1 hour. Check periodically and add more water if casserole is too dry.
- Stir casserole and smooth the top. Garnish with feta cheese and 1 tablespoon dill.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 330.3 calories, Carbohydrate 38.5 g, Cholesterol 10.1 mg, Fat 13.8 g, Fiber 7.7 g, Protein 13.1 g, SaturatedFat 3.3 g, Sodium 1003.6 mg, Sugar 9.9 g
BIG FAT GREEK SALAD WITH WHITE BEANS, KALAMATA OLIVES AND FETA
I prefer this meatless, but you may also add tuna if you want - either 2 well-drained cans or a seared tuna steak. From Shape Magazine (June 2005)
Provided by Vino Girl
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 20m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Whisk together vinegar, oil, oregano, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Add lettuce, carrots, cucumber, tomato, beans, and feta; toss.
- Either divide into 4 small bowls or keep in one large one.
- Top with olives and croutons.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 251.1, Fat 8.6, SaturatedFat 2.8, Cholesterol 11.4, Sodium 374.4, Carbohydrate 34.2, Fiber 8.6, Sugar 4.7, Protein 11.5
GREEK BIG BEANS
I love just about any kind of bean or pea. But I especially lover butter beans. This recipe works very well in a slow-cooker.
Provided by ratherbeswimmin
Categories Beans
Time 6h20m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Let the oil get heated in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add in the onion; cover and cook about 5 minutes or until onion is soft.
- Add in garlic; stir/saute for 1 minute or until softened.
- Transfer vegetable mixture to a 4-quart slow cooker.
- Add in the beans, tomatoes with liquid, and salt/pepper to taste; stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.
- Just before ready to serve, add in the parsley; stir to combine.
Tips:
- Soak the beans overnight: This will help to soften them and reduce the cooking time.
- Use a variety of beans: This will add flavor and texture to the dish.
- Cook the beans in a flavorful broth: This will help to infuse them with flavor.
- Add vegetables to the pot: This will make the dish more nutritious and flavorful.
- Season the dish to taste: Add salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.
- Serve the dish with a side of bread or rice: This will help to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion:
Greek Big Beans is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great way to use up leftover beans, and it is also a very affordable meal. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that will warm you up on a cold winter day. So next time you're looking for a new and exciting way to cook beans, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
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