Lent is the perfect time to prepare simple and flavorful plant-based meals. Beans are a great choice for a healthy, filling dish. Here’s a classic, easy recipe for Lenten beans that even beginners in the kitchen will be able to handle. This dish is not only simple to make but also incredibly tasty, making it a great addition to your Lenten menu.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups dried beans (any type of your choice)
- A few bay leaves
- 1 whole clove of garlic
- 3 medium-sized onions
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- A few black peppercorns
- Salt, to taste
- Water (enough to cover the beans)
Soak the Beans
To begin, soak the dried beans in water overnight. This helps soften them and reduces cooking time. The next day, bring the beans to a boil in the same water, allowing them to boil for about 10 minutes. Afterward, strain the beans and place them in fresh water. Put the beans back on the heat and continue cooking. Add the bay leaves and a few black peppercorns for extra flavor.
Cook the Beans:
Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensure they don’t split. Typically, beans need about 2 hours to cook, but this can vary depending on the type of bean. To check if the beans are done, take out a few and test them. If they are soft, the beans are cooked properly. Tip: Add a bit of water during the cooking process if needed.
Prepare the Onion and Garlic Mixture
While the beans are cooking, finely chop the onions and garlic (you can also mash the garlic for a smoother texture). Heat the olive oil in a pan, add the onions with a splash of water, and simmer until they soften (about 5-7 minutes). Add the garlic, salt, pepper, and allspice to the pan, stirring and cooking for another 3-5 minutes. Set this mixture aside.
Bake the Beans
Once the beans are fully cooked, let them cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a fireproof or earthenware dish with a bit of oil. Layer the beans and onion mixture, alternating between the two. Make sure the top layer is beans. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top and place the dish in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serving
These Lenten beans are best served with a side of fresh cabbage salad or roasted red peppers in oil with garlic.
