Greek Style Gigantes Plaki (Oven Baked Broad Beans with Vegetables)
Description:
Greek Style Gigantes Plaki is a classic, hearty dish made with broad beans, also known as “giant beans,” cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce and baked to perfection. This recipe is loaded with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, offering a delightful flavor profile. The beans become creamy, blending perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce for a truly satisfying dish.
Cuisine: Greek
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
- 400 grams White broad beans
- 1 Yellow zucchini, sliced diagonally
- 2 Carrots (Gajjar), cut into wedges
- 1 Onion, thinly sliced
- 2 Celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup Homemade tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- A pinch of Cinnamon powder (Dalchini)
- 2 Bay leaves (Tej Patta)
- 2 sprigs Parsley leaves, chopped
Preparation Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (soaking time)
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
- Prepare the beans: Begin by soaking the broad beans overnight in plenty of water. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans well.
- Cook the beans: Pressure cook the soaked beans with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 6-8 whistles or until the beans are soft. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Prepare the vegetables: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bay leaves, followed by the chopped celery. Sauté for 2 minutes, then add the sliced onions and garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the carrots and sauté until they begin to soften. Then add the zucchini and cook for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Combine the beans and vegetables: Add the cooked broad beans to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir gently for 2 minutes to combine.
- Prepare the tomato gravy: Pour in the homemade tomato puree and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes. Add the sugar, dried oregano, cinnamon powder, and salt to taste. Season with pepper as well.
- Bake the dish: Transfer the broad bean and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm as a main dish.
Serving suggestion:
Serve Greek Style Gigantes Plaki as a one-pot meal, paired with quinoa and grilled zucchini & chickpeas for a complete, healthy Sunday dinner. Enjoy the richness of Greek flavors in every bite!
