Creamy Slovenian Potato and Bean Mash

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes (about 800g / 1.8 lbs), peeled and cut into chunks 4 large potatoes (about 800g / 1.8 lbs), peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 cups (400g) cooked white beans 2 cups (400g) cooked white beans
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden and fragrant.
3. 3.
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes and white beans. Mash them together until smooth and creamy.
4. 4.
   Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the potato and bean mash, along with the dried marjoram. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Matevž warm, garnished with a sprinkle of dried marjoram for an extra touch of flavor.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Be sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• White beans — If using canned beans, rinse them thoroughly before adding to the mash to remove excess sodium.
• Marjoram — If you can't find dried marjoram, you can substitute it with dried oregano for a similar flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of plant-based milk or vegetable broth while mashing the potatoes and beans.
• Customize the dish by adding cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a meaty twist.
• Serve Matevž as a side dish with roasted meats or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile of the dish.

Serving advice

Serve Matevž as a comforting side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled sausages, or a fresh green salad. It pairs well with a glass of Slovenian white wine or a refreshing herbal tea.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Matevž, garnish each serving with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. Serve it in a rustic ceramic bowl or on a wooden platter for a touch of traditional Slovenian charm.