Etli Fagioli Freschi

Ingredients

In the original Turkish dish, Etli Taze Fasulye, the beans are the star of the show, while the meat plays a supporting role. However, in the Abruzzese and Molisan adaptation, Etli Fagioli Freschi, the meat takes center stage, with the beans providing a creamy and hearty base for the stew. Additionally, the herbs and spices used in the Abruzzese and Molisan version may differ slightly, reflecting the unique flavor profiles of the target cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Etli taze fasulye, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 400g (14 oz) fresh beans, such as cannellini or borlotti beans 400g (14 oz) fresh beans, such as cannellini or borlotti beans
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 liter (4 cups) beef or vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) beef or vegetable broth
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. 2.
   Add the meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
4. 4.
   Add the fresh beans to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the beans are cooked through.
5. 5.
   Remove the bay leaf from the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Etli Fagioli Freschi hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fresh beans — If fresh beans are not available, you can use canned beans as a substitute. Drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can brown the meat in batches before adding it to the stew.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the cooked beans with a fork or blend a small portion of the stew and then add it back to the pot.
• Feel free to customize the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of chili flakes can add a subtle heat to the dish.

Serving advice

Etli Fagioli Freschi is best served hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Etli Fagioli Freschi, garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh parsley. You can also serve it in individual bowls or rustic clay pots for a more authentic touch.