Greek Giant Beans - 500g
Greek giant beans, also known as Gigantes Plaki or Gigantes beans, are a type of large white beans that are popular in Greek cuisine. These beans have a creamy texture and a mild flavor. They are often used in traditional Greek dishes such as "gigantes plaki," where they are baked in a tomato sauce with herbs and spices. Greek giant beans are rich in protein, fiber, and various nutrients, making them a nutritious and flavorful addition to meals.
How to cook Giant Beans?
Cooking giant beans is a simple process that involves soaking and simmering. Here's a basic method to cook giant beans:
1. Soaking: Start by soaking the giant beans overnight or for at least 8 hours. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. This step helps soften the beans and reduce the cooking time.
2. Draining and rinsing: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them under cold water.
3. Cooking: Transfer the soaked and rinsed beans to a large pot and cover them with fresh water. The water level should be about 2 inches above the beans. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer.
4. Simmering: Simmer the beans uncovered for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, or until they are tender. Check the beans occasionally and add more water if needed to keep them submerged.
5. Testing for doneness: To check if the beans are cooked, take a bean and taste it. It should be soft and easily biteable. If the beans are still firm, continue simmering and check again in a few minutes.
6. Seasoning: Once the beans are cooked, you can season them according to your preference. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or used in various recipes.
You can also enhance the flavor by cooking the beans with aromatics like onions, garlic, herbs, or adding a vegetable or chicken broth to the cooking water. Once cooked, giant beans can be used in salads, stews, or served as a side dish. Enjoy your deliciously cooked giant beans!
How to Store Giant Beans
1. Store in a cool, dry place: Place the container in a cool, dry location such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid areas with direct sunlight or excessive moisture.
2. Check for freshness: Periodically check the beans for any signs of spoilage, such as mold, off smells, or insect infestation. If you notice any issues, discard the beans.
When stored properly, dried giant beans can typically stay fresh for up to 1 to 2 years. Cooked giant beans, on the other hand, should be consumed within 3-5 days if kept refrigerated.
Remember to rinse the dried beans before cooking, regardless of how they were stored, to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated.
Gigantes Plaki Recipe
Gigantes Plaki is a traditional Greek dish featuring giant beans cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
2 cups dried gigantes beans
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Rinse the dried gigantes beans and soak them in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
- In a large pot, add the drained gigantes beans and cover them with fresh water. Bring to a boil and let them simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain the beans and set them aside.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a separate large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Add the dried oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Gently fold in the cooked gigantes beans, ensuring they are evenly coated with the tomato sauce mixture.
- Place the skillet or casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve Gigantes Plaki as a main dish or as a side dish alongside crusty bread. It pairs well with a Greek salad or can be enjoyed on its own. Enjoy your delicious Greek giant beans!
Nutritional Information:
(per 100g)
Energy: 1225kj/292kcal
Fat: 2.2g
Saturated Fat: 0.2g
Carbohydrate: 36g
of which Sugars: 3.7g
Fibre: 24g
Protein: 20g
Salt: 0.02g
Iron: 5.41mg
Ingredients: Product of Greece
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