Prebranac (Baked Giant Bean Casserole)

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

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1. 1

   Drain the soaked giant white beans and place them in a large pot.

2. 2

   Cover the beans with fresh water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

   Ongeveer 15 min

   Tip van de kok: This initial boil helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time later.

3. 3

   Drain the beans again and set them aside.

4. 4

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

   Ongeveer 10 min

5. 5

   In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

   Ongeveer 1 min

6. 6

   Add the yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and soft, about 15-20 minutes.

   Ongeveer 20 min

   Tip van de kok: Don't rush this step; the caramelization of the onions is key to the dish's flavor.

7. 7

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

   Ongeveer 1 min

8. 8

   Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the paprika, black pepper, and salt.

   Ongeveer 1 min

   Tip van de kok: Adding paprika off the heat prevents it from burning and becoming bitter.

9. 9

   In an oven-safe casserole dish, layer half of the cooked beans.

   Ongeveer 1 min

   Tip van de kok: A deep dish works best for even baking.

10. 10

    Spread half of the onion mixture over the beans.

    Ongeveer 1 min

11. 11

    Add the remaining beans, then top with the rest of the onion mixture.

    Ongeveer 1 min

12. 12

    Tuck the bay leaves into the bean mixture.

13. 13

    Pour the water over the beans, ensuring they are just covered. Add more hot water if needed.

    Ongeveer 1 min

14. 14

    Bake, uncovered, for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beans are very tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed, leaving a rich, thick sauce.

    Ongeveer 2 uur 30 min

    Tip van de kok: Check occasionally and add a splash of hot water if the dish looks too dry before the beans are tender.

15. 15

    Remove the bay leaves before serving.