Gigantes Plaki (γίγαντες πλακί) is a traditional Greek dish of giant beans baked in a rich tomato and olive oil sauce with herbs and vegetables. Simple, healthy, and full of authentic Mediterranean flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
Find the detailed recipe on Supergolden Bakes: https://www.supergoldenbakes.com/gigantes-plaki-greek-baked-beans-recipe/
INGREDIENTS
⅓ cup (80ml) olive oil , more to serve
1 large onion, finely diced
1 carrot, peeled and finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp sugar, or to taste if needed
3 cloves garlic, minced or sliced
15 oz can crushed tomatoes
2 tsp tomato paste
1 cup (240ml) vegetable stock or water
Handful fresh dill, roughly chopped
2 bay leaves, dried
2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
To serve:
2 tbsp chopped parsley or extra dill
3 tbsp crumbled feta cheese , or to taste (optional)
Salt and pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Heat a generous amount of olive oil In a large oven-safe casserole dish. Add the onion, carrot, celery, salt, pepper, garlic powder and red pepper flakes. Sauté over loe heat, stirring often, for 7-10 minutes, or until vegetables have softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds or so. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, stock or water, bay leaves and dill. Add the sugar if the tomatoes are a little acidic. Bring to a gentle simmer then stir in the beans.
3. Bake for 40-50 minutes in the oven, or until the sauce has thickened and beans are very tender.
4. You can also continue cooking the beans on the stove. Cover the skillet, and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to check the pan doesn’t get too dry. Add a splash of water as needed if it does.
5. Discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning adding salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve drizzled with olive oil, some crumbled feta cheese, a scattering of dill or fresh parsley and plenty of crusty bread.
Dining and Cooking