Gigantes Plaki

Gigantes Plaki

Gigantes Plaki is a comforting Greek baked bean dish featuring tender butter beans in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, this hearty meal showcases the essence of Mediterranean flavors.

Vegetarian

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

110 min

Servings

4

Gigantes Plaki is a classic Greek vegetarian dish that has been enjoyed in Mediterranean households for centuries. The large butter beans, known as gigantes, are soaked overnight to soften and then gently cooked before being baked in a savory tomato sauce enhanced by garlic, oregano, and a subtle hint of cinnamon. This slow-baked preparation allows the beans to absorb all the delicious flavors, creating a dish that is both nutritious and deeply satisfying. Traditionally, Gigantes Plaki is served as part of a meze spread or as a hearty main course accompanied by crusty bread and a fresh Greek salad. Its robust flavors pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or an iced glass of ouzo for an authentic Mediterranean experience. The dish's origins reflect the resourcefulness of Greek cuisine, turning simple pantry staples into something extraordinary. This recipe honors those traditions by carefully coaxing out the beans' natural creaminess while balancing the tangy sweetness of the tomato base and the aromatic warmth provided by oregano and cinnamon. It's perfect for a family meal or for sharing with friends, especially during cooler months when its comforting qualities shine most.

Ingredients

  • 400 g Butter Beans
  • 3 tb Olive Oil
  • 1 chopped Onion
  • 2 chopped Garlic Clove
  • 2 tb Tomato Puree
  • 800 g Tomatoes
  • 1 tb Sugar
  • 1 tb Dried Oregano
  • Pinch Cinnamon
  • 2 tb Chopped Parsley

Instructions

Begin by soaking the butter beans overnight in plenty of cold water; this step softens the beans and reduces cooking time, so be patient for the best texture. Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans well to remove any residue. Transfer the beans to a large pan and cover them with fresh water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for approximately 50 minutes. The goal is to have the beans tender but still holding their shape, not mushy. Drain the beans carefully and set them aside. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or gas mark 4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a spacious frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking slowly for about 10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant but avoid browning, which can turn the flavor bitter. Stir in the tomato purée and cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavor. Next, add the peeled chopped tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, and a pinch of cinnamon—the cinnamon gently warms the dish without overpowering it. Allow this sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld the flavors. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then fold in the drained butter beans, ensuring each bean is well coated with the luscious sauce. Pour the mixture into a large ovenproof dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 1 hour. Do not stir during baking; this helps the beans to absorb all the wonderful flavors and lets the sauce thicken into a rich coating. Once baked to tender perfection and bubbling with flavor, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil to add brightness and richness. Tip: For an even more intense flavor, consider preparing the sauce a day ahead and refrigerating it overnight before assembling the dish. This resting time allows the herbs and spices to blend deeply with the tomatoes and beans.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
110 min
Total Time
125 min
Servings
4

You May Also Like