Fasolia (White Bean Stew)

🛒 Ingredients

• Dried White Beans 250 g · 850 kcal
• Lean Beef Stew Meat 400 g · 800 kcal
• Olive Oil 27 g · 240 kcal
• Onion 150 g · 60 kcal
• Garlic 15 g · 20 kcal
• Tomato Paste 70 g · 60 kcal
• Canned Diced Tomatoes 400 g · 80 kcal
• Water 750 g · 0 kcal
• Bay Leaf 1 g · 0 kcal
• Fresh Parsley 15 g · 6 kcal

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Soak white beans overnight in cold water; drain and rinse them thoroughly. This step is crucial for proper cooking and digestion.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown them on all sides, then remove the beef and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add tomato paste and stir well, cooking for 2-3 minutes to deepen its flavor.
5. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and water (or broth). Add the drained, rinsed white beans and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans and beef are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, traditionally with rice or crusty bread.