Gigantes Plaki Recipe

Gather your loved ones around the table with a bowl of heartwarming Gigantes Plaki. This traditional Greek dish translates to “giant beans,” and it’s as delightful as it sounds. Packed with tender, oversized beans nestled in a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The slow-baked, comforting flavors merge beautifully, and when paired with crusty bread, it turns an ordinary meal into a memorable occasion. Let’s dive into this delectable offering that promises to make your kitchen warm and inviting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Servings: 6

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried giant beans (Gigantes)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread, to serve
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse and soak the dried beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
2. In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour until beans are tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Gently fold in the cooked beans and mix well to ensure they are coated with the sauce.
7. Transfer the bean mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the top is slightly browned.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and your choice of herbs. Serve warm, accompanied by crusty bread.

Helpful Tips

• Bean soaking: If you forget to soak the beans overnight, you can do a quick soak by covering them with water, bringing to a boil, then letting them sit for 1 hour before cooking.
• Vegetarian version: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it perfect for meatless meals.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dish up to the baking step a day in advance. Store in the fridge and bake just before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

Gigantes Plaki pairs beautifully with simple side salads, like a Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta. For drinks, a light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish wonderfully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon is refreshing.

Here at Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen. We hope this Gigantes Plaki recipe adds a touch of tradition and comfort to your family dinners. We encourage you to try it, share your delightful creations with us, and spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest inspirations. Happy cooking!