Braised White Beans
Creamy, hearty white beans are braised with aromatic vegetables and herbs, resulting in a comforting dish perfect for any season, suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
- Place the beans in a pot and cover with fresh water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered until barely tender, about 30 to 35 minutes.
- Drain the beans, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced leek, carrot, celery, and garlic to the skillet.
- Saute until the vegetables are quite soft, about 10 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine the vegetable mixture, beans, and 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Stir in the tomato paste, chopped parsley, sage, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the beans until piping hot and tender, about 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the vegetable mixture while sautéing. If you don't have sage, thyme or rosemary can serve as excellent substitutes. To enhance the dish, try incorporating some diced tomatoes or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. Make sure to check the beans for doneness as cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of beans used.
Serving Suggestions
These braised white beans make a hearty main or side dish. Pair them with grilled meats like Pan-Roasted Lamb Chops for a satisfying meal, or serve alongside a fresh Raddicchio, Arugula And Endive Salad for a light, balanced plate. They also work wonderfully as a filling for wraps or served over rice, making them versatile for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover braised white beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry. They also freeze well for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braised White Beans contains roughly 356 calories, with 14g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1369mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Just drain and rinse them, then skip the boiling step. Add them directly to the sautéed vegetables, along with the cooking liquid and other ingredients, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What can I serve with braised white beans?
Braised white beans pair well with various dishes, such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving them alongside Herb-Baked Tomatoes to enhance the flavors and create a colorful plate.
How do I adjust the flavors in the dish?
You can easily adjust the flavors by adding more herbs or spices according to your taste. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika. If you prefer a citrusy touch, a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the dish. Taste and adjust seasonings accordingly to achieve your desired flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).