World Flavors Cookbook

Tavče Gravče (Baked Beans)

Name: Tavče Gravče (Baked Beans)
Cook time: 120 min
Cuisine: North Macedonia
Ingredients: 500g white beans, 2 onions, 2 red bell peppers, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tbsp dried mint, 1 bay leaf, 100ml oil, salt and black pepper to taste

The national dish of North Macedonia, these hearty baked beans are traditionally prepared in a clay pot to create a unique earthy flavor and a perfect crust.

Cuisine: North Macedonia

Ingredients

500g white beans, 2 onions, 2 red bell peppers, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tbsp dried mint, 1 bay leaf, 100ml oil, salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Soak the beans overnight. 2. Boil the beans until tender, then drain. 3. Sauté finely chopped onions and peppers in oil until soft. 4. Stir in paprika and mint. 5. Combine the beans with the onion mixture in a clay pot (tava). 6. Add enough bean water to cover. 7. Bake at 180°C (350°F) until a thick crust forms on top and the sauce is creamy.