A traditional baked bean dish in the oven. A recipe that brings the aroma of Greece, warmth, and flavor straight to your table, perfect for any season.
Gigantes Plaki is a classic Greek recipe, loved for its rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and comforting taste.
Ingredients
- 500 g giant beans (gigantes)
- 2 white onions, sliced into rings
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 large carrot, sliced into rounds
- A few sprigs of celery, finely chopped
- A few sprigs of parsley, finely chopped
- A few sprigs of dill, finely chopped
- 1 can (400 g) chopped tomatoes (concassé)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup hot water
Method
- Soaking: Place the beans in a large bowl of water the night before. If you are unsure whether they will cook easily, add a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water.
- First boil: The next day, rinse the beans well. Boil them in fresh water for 10 minutes, then discard this first water along with any foam that forms.
- Main boil: Continue boiling for about 45 minutes, until the beans are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and place them in a deep baking dish.
- The sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the onion, garlic, and carrot. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, celery, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes. Add the olive oil and 1 cup of hot water.
- Combine & bake: Pour the sauce over the beans, mix gently, and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 45–60 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the beans are soft and flavorful.
Extra Tips
- For a smoky depth, add a little sweet or hot paprika.
- For extra richness, sprinkle with crumbled feta or kefalotyri cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Serve with crusty bread, olives, or a slice of feta cheese on the side.
These beans keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days and taste even better when reheated.
Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)
Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Dietary Fiber: 15 g
Fat: 12 g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate
Minerals: Iron, potassium, magnesium
Giant beans are a powerhouse of plant-based protein and fiber. They support heart health, help regulate blood sugar, and are an excellent dish for fasting periods or vegetarian diets.
CookTheGreekWay 