Fasolakia
Fasolakia Recipe - A Delicious Turkish Green Bean Dish
Introduction
Fasolakia is a traditional Greek dish made with fresh green beans, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. This flavorful and nutritious dish is perfect for a hearty meal.
History
Fasolakia has been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries. It is a simple and delicious dish that showcases the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Clean and wash the beans.
- In a pot, heat the oil and sauté the onions. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the potatoes, along with a small amount of water. Allow the beans to cook slowly for 20 minutes.
- Cut the potatoes into 4 wedges and add them to the pot last.
- If necessary, add more water and let the mixture boil for a while. Serve hot.
Variations
- Add some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.
- Substitute the green beans with other vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Add some olives or capers for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to clean and wash the green beans thoroughly before cooking.
- Sautéing the onions before adding the other ingredients helps to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Adding a pinch of sugar can help to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Slowly cooking the beans allows them to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Fasolakia can be served as a main dish with crusty bread or as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.
Cooking Techniques
Slow cooking the beans allows them to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh green beans are not available, you can use frozen green beans instead.
Make Ahead Tips
Fasolakia can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. It also tastes great the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Fasolakia in a colorful bowl and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Fasolakia pairs well with a crisp white wine or a glass of ouzo.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Fasolakia contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Fasolakia contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Fasolakia contains approximately 5 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Fasolakia contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Fasolakia is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
Alergens
Fasolakia is a gluten-free and dairy-free dish, making it suitable for those with food allergies or sensitivities.
Summary
Fasolakia is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Fasolakia is a classic Greek dish that is both delicious and nutritious. With its fresh flavors and simple preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Fasolakia. It was many years ago, during a trip to Greece with my dear friend Sophia. We had been exploring the beautiful countryside, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant Mediterranean country. One day, we stumbled upon a quaint little taverna nestled in the hills, and decided to stop in for a meal.
As soon as we walked in, the delicious aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs filled the air. We were greeted warmly by the owner, a kind elderly woman who spoke very little English. Despite the language barrier, she welcomed us into her kitchen and showed us how to prepare one of her signature dishes - Fasolakia.
I watched in awe as she chopped fresh green beans, tomatoes, onions, and garlic with such precision and skill. She then added a splash of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of oregano to the pan, creating a mouthwatering sauce that filled the room with its intoxicating scent. As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't wait to taste the final result.
When the Fasolakia was finally ready, the owner served us generous portions alongside crusty bread and a simple salad. The first bite was a revelation - the flavors were so vibrant and fresh, each ingredient singing in perfect harmony. I savored every bite, knowing that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in my own kitchen.
After our meal, I mustered up the courage to ask the owner for the recipe. She smiled warmly and gestured for me to follow her to a small wooden table in the corner of the kitchen. She pulled out a weathered notebook filled with handwritten recipes, some faded with age and stained with splatters of sauce. She flipped through the pages until she found the one for Fasolakia, and then she handed it to me with a nod of approval.
I thanked her profusely, knowing that this recipe would become a cherished heirloom in my family for generations to come. As Sophia and I left the taverna that day, I couldn't wait to recreate the magic of Fasolakia in my own kitchen.
Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking and perfecting it to suit my own taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its simplicity and deliciousness. Whenever I make Fasolakia, I am transported back to that sunny day in Greece, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a country that has captured my heart.
I am eternally grateful to that kind elderly woman for sharing her recipe with me, and for inspiring me to explore the culinary traditions of different cultures. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to connect with others and create memories that last a lifetime. And every time I make Fasolakia, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, no matter where they come from.
So here is my version of the recipe for Fasolakia, passed down from that kind woman in Greece to me, and now to you. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have, and that it brings a little taste of the Mediterranean into your home. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Green Bean Recipes | Green Bean Side Dish Recipes | Potato Recipes | Potato Side Dish Recipes | Tomato Recipes | Turkish Recipes | Turkish Salads |