Jani me Fasul
Jani me Fasul Recipe - Authentic Albanian White Bean Dish
Introduction
Jani me Fasul is a traditional Albanian dish that features white beans cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends.
History
Jani me Fasul has been a staple in Albanian cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during the colder months, as it is warm and filling. The combination of white beans, tomatoes, and herbs creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is loved by many.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of dry white beans
- 0.5 cup of chopped onion
- 0.5 cup of olive oil
- 2 tbsp of tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp of chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp of chopped mint
- salt
- chili powder
How to prepare
- Boil the beans in hot water, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
- Rinse the beans and then boil them for another 15 minutes in a covered stock pot with 3 cups of hot water.
- Saute the onion in olive oil until it turns yellow.
- Add 2 tbsp of bean stock from the pot, along with tomato sauce, parsley, salt, and chili powder for taste.
- Cook for 10 minutes or until a thick sauce is formed, then pour everything into the pot.
- Add chopped mint, cover tightly, and let it cool for 2 hours over low heat, or for 30 minutes in a pressure cooker.
- This should produce a thick juice, covering the beans by an inch.
- Serve hot.
Variations
- Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Use different herbs such as oregano or thyme for a unique twist.
- Add cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier version of the dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cooking the beans in a covered pot helps them retain their shape and texture.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Letting the dish cool for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together and develop a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Jani me Fasul can be served as a main dish with crusty bread or rice on the side. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling the beans before cooking helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.
- Sauteing the onions in olive oil adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- Allowing the dish to simmer over low heat helps the flavors to develop and intensify.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use canned white beans instead of dry beans for a quicker cooking time.
- Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.
- Use dried herbs if fresh herbs are not available.
Make Ahead Tips
Jani me Fasul can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish Jani me Fasul with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint before serving. Serve it in a decorative bowl for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Jani me Fasul pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing glass of lemonade. It also goes well with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Jani me Fasul in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Jani me Fasul contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Jani me Fasul contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Jani me Fasul contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Jani me Fasul contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Jani me Fasul is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
Alergens
Jani me Fasul is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.
Summary
Jani me Fasul is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a satisfying meal.
Summary
Jani me Fasul is a delicious and nutritious Albanian dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its hearty white beans, flavorful tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor the rich flavors of this traditional recipe.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Albania. My grandmother, who was known for her incredible cooking skills, had passed down her recipes to my mother, who in turn passed them down to me. But this particular recipe for Jani me Fasul was something special - it was a recipe that was not only delicious, but also held a special place in my heart.
I remember it was a hot summer day, the sun beating down on the dusty streets of our village. I had been helping my grandmother in the kitchen, watching as she expertly chopped vegetables and stirred pots on the stove. As she cooked, she would tell me stories of how she learned to make each dish, from the simplest salad to the most complex stew.
On this particular day, as she stirred a pot of beans and vegetables, she began to tell me the story of Jani me Fasul. She told me that this recipe had been passed down through generations in our family, and that each generation had added their own twist to it. She spoke of how her own grandmother had first taught her to make it, and how she had since perfected the recipe to make it her own.
As she spoke, I could see the love and passion in her eyes. It was in that moment that I knew I had to learn how to make Jani me Fasul for myself. I begged my grandmother to teach me, to show me the secrets of this beloved dish. And so, she agreed.
We spent the rest of the day in the kitchen, my grandmother guiding me through each step of the recipe. She showed me how to soak the beans, how to chop the vegetables, how to season the stew just right. And as we cooked together, she shared stories of her own childhood, of the times she had spent in the kitchen with her own grandmother.
By the time the stew was ready, the sun had begun to set, casting a warm glow over our little kitchen. My grandmother ladled out bowls of Jani me Fasul for us to enjoy, and as I took my first bite, I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart.
Over the years, I have continued to make Jani me Fasul, each time adding my own twist to the recipe, just as my grandmother had done before me. I have shared it with friends and family, watching as their eyes light up with each delicious bite. And as I cook, I can't help but think of my grandmother, and the love and passion she poured into each and every dish she made.
Now, as I pass down the recipe for Jani me Fasul to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same love and joy that I do when I cook this beloved dish. And I hope that they will remember the stories and memories that come with it, just as I do. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always bring a smile to my face, and I know that it will continue to do so for generations to come.