This Week by The Greek Self: Gigantes Plaki, Greek Baked Giant Beans

This week, we bring the warmth of a Greek home kitchen to your table with Gigantes Plaki – a classic dish made with Arosis Giant Beans from The Greek Self. Slow-baked in a fragrant tomato sauce with fresh herbs and olive oil, it’s a hearty, nourishing meal perfect for sharing.

Using the finest Greek ingredients, this recipe is simple yet rich in authentic flavors. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 500g Arosis Giant Beans (Gigantes) from Kastoria

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 carrots, sliced into rounds

• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes or grated fresh tomatoes

• 3 tbsp tomato paste Kyknos (diluted in ½ cup warm water)

• 100ml organic extra virgin olive oil Latzimas

• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp sweet paprika (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak the Beans
   Rinse the Arosis Giant Beans and soak them overnight (8-12 hours) in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking.

2. Cook the Beans
   In a large pot, cover the soaked beans with fresh water and add the bay leaf. Simmer for 1.5-2 hours until the beans are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a deep pan, heat half the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and carrots until soft (about 5 minutes). Add the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Assemble & Bake
   In a baking dish, mix the beans with the sauce and spread evenly. Drizzle the remaining olive oil on top. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, stirring halfway, until the sauce thickens and the beans develop a golden crust.

5. Serve
   Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with crusty bread and a side of feta cheese.

Shop the finest Arosis Giant Beans and other Greek essentials now in The Greek Self – because every great recipe starts with quality ingredients.