Giantes (Γίγαντες), Traditional Greek Dish

Here's a cozy, flavorful recipe for Giantes (Γίγαντες), the famous Greek giant beans dish, enriched with a variety of vegetables and a touch of traditional sausage. It's the perfect hearty meal, especially when using Kastoria Giants beans, which are larger and more flavorful than regular beans.

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Giantes (Γίγαντες)

Ingredients:

• 500g giant beans (Kastoria beans) (or any large white beans)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
• 2-3 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 can of chopped tomatoes)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3-4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 medium-sized sausages (preferably Greek village sausage or any smoked sausage), cut into pieces (optional, for a meaty addition)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional for added tang)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions:

Prepare the Beans:

1. Soak the giant beans overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse them.
2. Place them in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Let them cook for about 45 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and celery, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add Tomatoes and Spices:

1. Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce.
2. Add the dill, sausage (if using), and the cooked giant beans. Stir to combine.

Simmer:

1. Add enough vegetable broth or water to cover the beans and vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce and thicken, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a touch of red wine vinegar and sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Serve:

1. Once the beans are tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful, remove from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.
2. Serve warm with some fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Enjoy Your Giantes!

This hearty dish, with its tender beans, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful sausage, is a great way to enjoy Greek comfort food. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, and it’s bound to be a hit!