Old Family Portuguese Beans

Old Family Portuguese Beans

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

  1. 2 cups dried beans (such as kidney or pinto)
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 bay leaf
  5. 1 teaspoon paprika
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Water as needed

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them again under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add the soaked beans to the pot, along with the bay leaf, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  6. 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.
  7. Simmer the beans gently, stirring occasionally and checking the liquid level. Add more hot water if needed to keep the beans covered.
  8. Cook the beans for approximately
  9. 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.
  10. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  11. Serve hot as a main dish or side, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips

  1. Soaking is Non-Negotiable: Always soak your beans overnight to ensure even cooking and reduce digestive discomfort.
  2. Fresh is Best: Use fresh spices like paprika to maximize flavor complexity.
  3. Low and Slow is the Golden Rule: Resist the urge to rush the cooking process. Gentle simmering is key to achieving creamy, tender beans.
  4. Water Watch: Keep beans consistently covered with liquid during cooking to prevent burning and ensure even texture.
  5. Seasoning Secrets: Don't be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
  6. Storage Hack: These beans taste even better the next day, so consider making a larger batch for delicious leftovers.
  7. 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

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