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Gigantes Plaki: Greek Baked Beans
Gigantes Plaki is a traditional Greek dish made from large white beans baked in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty and nutritious meal, typically served as a meze (appetizer) or main course, is loved for its simplicity and robust flavours.
Nutritional Benefits:
This dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Beans are rich in protein, fibre, and essential minerals, while the tomato-based sauce provides antioxidants like lycopene. Gigantes Plaki is also naturally vegan, making it an ideal choice for those seeking plant-based meals.
Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, Gigantes Plaki is a flavourful representation of Greek home cooking.
Gigantes Plaki: Greek Baked Beans Recipe
This traditional Greek dish is simple to make and full of flavour. Here’s a classic recipe for Gigantes Plaki, perfect for a wholesome Mediterranean meal.
Ingredients:
1 pound (450g) Gigantes beans (or large butter beans)
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, sliced thinly
1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes or 4-5 fresh tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup (60ml) water or vegetable stock
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Beans: Rinse the beans, and then soak them overnight in a large bowl of water.
Drain and rinse again: In a large pot, add the soaked beans and enough water to cover them. Boil for about 40-50 minutes or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Add the garlic and carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, bay leaves, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add water or vegetable stock to loosen the sauce and simmer for a few more minutes.
Combine and Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked beans and the tomato sauce, ensuring that the beans are evenly coated.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the beans are tender.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, crusty bread, and, if desired, a side of feta cheese or olives.
Tips:
Optional additions: A splash of white wine or vinegar can add extra depth of flavour to the sauce.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature and often tastes even better the next day.
Enjoy your homemade Gigantes Plaki!
Recommended wine for Gigantes Plaki
Gigantes Plaki, the Greek dish of giant beans baked in a rich tomato, garlic, and herb sauce, pairs beautifully with wines that complement its hearty texture, slight sweetness, and aromatic flavours. Here are some wine recommendations:
Rosé from Provence
A dry rosé with subtle fruit and herb notes is an ideal match, offering a refreshing contrast to the savoury, earthy flavours of the beans.
Flavor Profile: Strawberry, watermelon, and floral or herbal hints with a dry finish.
Regions: Provence, France, or a similar dry rosé from Greece or Spain.
Xinomavro
If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Greek red like Xinomavro offers acidity and tannin structure that works well with tomato-based dishes without overpowering the beans.
Flavour Profile: Red berries, tomato leaves, olives, and sometimes a hint of earthiness.
Regions: Naoussa or Amyntaio, Greece.
Verdicchio
This Italian white is crisp and fresh, with good acidity that complements Mediterranean dishes with tomato and herbs.
Flavour Profile: Green apple, lemon, almond, and herbal notes.
Regions: Marche, Italy.
Each of these wines will bring out different aspects of the dish, from the earthy richness of the beans to the aromatic herbs and tomatoes. Assyrtiko and Xinomavro are particularly nice options for adding an authentically Greek pairing!
