Croatian Bean Stew

Story behind the dish

Imagine a cozy kitchen in rural Croatia, where the aroma of simmering beans and smoky chorizo fills the air. This hearty bean stew has been a comforting staple for generations, offering warmth and nutrition in every spoonful. Its simple ingredients come together to create a robust flavorscape that celebrates rustic Croatian flavors.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—whether cooked on the stovetop or baked slowly in the oven, it’s designed to develop depth and richness. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, this stew becomes even more delicious the next day, as the flavors meld and intensify.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) cannellini beans
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 1 large tomato or 1/2 cup canned)
• 5 shallots, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Pinch of parsley, chopped
• 1/2 kg (about 1 lb) chopped chorizo

Step-by-step

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped shallots and garlic; sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until the mixture is slightly thickened, tender, and fragrant.
4. Transfer the sautéed vegetables and the cannellini beans (including their liquid) to a large pot.
5. Add the chopped chorizo to the pot, allowing it to distribute its smoky richness throughout.
6. Simmer the stew gently on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
7. Alternatively, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes for an even more hearty, baked version.
8. Garnish with a pinch of chopped parsley before serving.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• Serve this stew with crusty bread or rustic flatbread for a complete meal.
• For a touch of freshness, sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Closing thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slow-simmered bean stew, especially one rooted in Croatian tradition. It’s a dish that celebrates humble ingredients, transforming them into a soul-warming masterpiece. Whether enjoyed right after cooking or the next day’s reheated leftovers, it’s a perfect dish to bring family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every hearty spoonful!