Imagine a recipe that whispers stories of generations past, where every spoonful carries the warmth of Portuguese kitchens and the love of family traditions. These Old Family Portuguese Beans are not just a dish; they're a time machine that transports you to cozy family gatherings, where slow-cooked beans simmer with rich, comforting flavors that have been perfected over decades. Get ready to unlock a recipe that's more than just food—it's a delicious piece of cultural heritage that will transform your dining experience and connect you to the soul of Portuguese home cooking.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Portuguese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried beans (such as kidney or pinto)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dried beans thoroughly, removing any small stones or damaged beans. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water, allowing them to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them again under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the soaked beans to the pot, along with the bay leaf, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Pour enough water into the pot to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the beans gently, stirring occasionally and checking the liquid level. Add more hot water if needed to keep the beans covered.
- Cook the beans for approximately
- 5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and creamy. The cooking time may vary depending on the age and type of beans used.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Soaking is Non-Negotiable: Always soak your beans overnight to ensure even cooking and reduce digestive discomfort.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh spices like paprika to maximize flavor complexity.
- Low and Slow is the Golden Rule: Resist the urge to rush the cooking process. Gentle simmering is key to achieving creamy, tender beans.
- Water Watch: Keep beans consistently covered with liquid during cooking to prevent burning and ensure even texture.
- Seasoning Secrets: Don't be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
- Storage Hack: These beans taste even better the next day, so consider making a larger batch for delicious leftovers.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish from good to extraordinary.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
