bake beans

Homemade Baked Beans with Mixed Legumes and Vegetables

 

Homemade Baked Beans with Mixed Legumes and Vegetables

Ingredients

Bean Mix:
– 4 red onions, finely diced
– 1 head of garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fermented chili paste
– 4 zucchinis, finely diced
– 20 mushrooms, sliced
– 4 capsicums (bell peppers), finely diced
– 500g soaked mixed beans (cannellini, borlotti, kidney beans)
– 500g soaked mixed legumes (chickpeas, black lentils, brown lentils, green lentils)
– 1 A10 tin (3kg) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 liter water
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp ground coriander
– 1 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 bunch parsley, chopped
– ½ bunch coriander (cilantro), chopped (including stems and leaves)
– 2 tbsp cracked black pepper
– 2 tbsp sea salt
– Olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
– Finely dice the red onions, garlic, capsicums, zucchinis, and coriander stems. Slice the mushrooms.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
– In a large pot, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the diced red onions, garlic, capsicums, mushrooms, zucchinis, and coriander stems. Sauté until the vegetables are translucent and fragrant, about 8-10 minutes.

3. Add Spices and Chili Paste:
– Stir in the smoked paprika, ground coriander, ground cumin, and fermented chili paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are aromatic.

4. Combine Beans, Legumes, and Tomatoes:
– Add the soaked beans, legumes, and the entire tin of crushed tomatoes to the pot.
– Pour in the water, stirring well to combine all ingredients.

5. Simmer the Beans:
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans and legumes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

6. Season and Finish:
– Once the beans are tender, season with cracked black pepper and sea salt to taste.
– Stir in the chopped parsley and coriander leaves, reserving some for garnish.

7. Serve:
– Ladle the homemade baked beans into bowls, garnishing with the reserved fresh parsley and coriander.
– Serve hot with crusty bread, over rice, or on its own as a hearty, nutritious meal.

Tips for the Best Baked Beans:
Soak the Beans and Legumes: For best results, soak the beans and legumes overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.

Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of fermented chili paste based on your preference for heat
Add a Smoky Twist:** For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a smoked ham hock or a few drops of liquid smoke.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade baked beans packed with a variety of flavors and textures!