Gigantes Plaki Baked Greek Beans

Growing up, white beans meant cozy stews with lamb and a side of rice vermicelli – a taste of home. Lately, I’ve been on a recipe adventure, finding new ways to enjoy these vegetarian protein powerhouses. It’s been a tasty journey from a comforting Italian-Style White Bean and Kale mix to a hearty Fasolada Greek Bean Soup. Today, I share a new favorite – Gigantes Plaki, a baked Greek bean dish. It’s a simple recipe, but the flavors will take you on a delightful culinary ride. Join me as we cook up something delicious! 

What is Gigantes Plaki

Gigantes Plaki is a Greek culinary treasure, a robust baked bean dish whose flavors come together beautifully.  “Plaki” refers to the preparation method in which ingredients are baked to perfection, allowing their essence to meld into a symphony of taste. This delightful dish is traditionally crafted with large lima beans, renowned for their creamy texture and exceptional ability to absorb the rich medley of accompanying flavors.

Dry or Canned Beans

In cooking this baked Greek beans dish, I opted for the hearty texture of dry large lima beans, providing a satisfying bite to each mouthful. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can easily substitute with other white beans like butter beans or cannellini beans, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preference. For those with a time constraint! While traditionally soaked overnight and cooked until almost tender, canned large lima beans streamline the process, reducing the cooking time to 30 minutes. It’s a culinary journey where you choose the path that suits your schedule without compromising flavor.

Baked Greek Beans Ingredient:

• Dry Large Lima Beans or Canned Large Lima Beans: Dried beans, soaked overnight and cooked until almost tender, infuse depth, while canned beans offer convenience with a cooking time of just 30 minutes.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: A generous amount contributes to the dish’s luxurious creaminess and tenderness
• Onion: The finely chopped onion adds a sweet and savory base, providing a subtle sweetness that enhances the dish’s complexity.
• Celery: Celery brings a refreshing, mild crunch, complementing the beans and adding a layer of freshness to the ensemble.
• Carrots: Finely chopped carrots add natural sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the savory notes and enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.
• Garlic: These are a garlic lover’s delight! Six cloves sliced into the mix offer a robust, aromatic kick. 
•  Bay Leaves, Oregano, Cinnamon, and Red Chili Flakes: Together, they enrich Gigantes Plaki with layers of depth, warmth, and Mediterranean essence.
• Red Wine Vinegar: A splash of red wine vinegar brings a hint of acidity. Elevating the overall flavor profile with a tangy note.
• Canned Chopped Tomatoes with Juice or Fresh Plum Tomatoes (with an additional 1/2 cup stock if using fresh): Tomatoes contribute a luscious, tangy element. Canned tomatoes with juice or fresh tomatoes with added stock enhance the dish’s juiciness and acidity.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: A finishing touch of crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty kick that complements the beans’ overall richness.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley provides a burst of herbal freshness, balancing the dish’s richness and adding a vibrant touch.

Gigantes Plaki Serving Suggestions

Gigantes Plaki: If you prefer a simple and satisfying meal, relish it as a hearty main course. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the savory sauce. Or elevate it further by serving it over pasta or rice for a more substantial dining experience.

 Gigantes Plaki also makes a perfect companion to other dishes. Use it as a delectable side to grilled chicken or lamb chops. They allow the creamy beans and rich sauce to complement and enhance the flavors of your main course. These Greek baked beans will be a satisfying addition to your table.