Spicy Butter Beans with Tomatoes

This recipe combines tender butter beans with ripe tomatoes, creating a delightful combination of flavors. With the addition of garlic, parsley, and a hint of chili powder, this dish balances spice and richness perfectly. Ideal as a side dish or a light main, it can be tailored to suit various preferences and dietary needs. The creaminess from the sour cream complements the tanginess of the tomatoes, while the garlic infuses a robust aroma. Parsley adds a fresh herbal note, rounding out the dish beautifully. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The result is a comforting and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed both warm and cold. Pair it with crusty bread or serve alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. Versatile and delicious, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 kg butter or green beans
1 kg tomatoes
1 head of garlic
Parsley
3 tablespoons sour cream

Spices and Seasonings

Salt
Pepper
Chili powder (optional)
Water

Preparation Time

Total Time: 25 minutes
(Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cook Time: 15 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by preparing the beans. Rinse the butter beans and briefly soak them in a bowl of water to clean off any dirt or debris.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the beans and cook for about 10 minutes until they are tender.
Drain the beans and let them cool. Once cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the tomatoes. Boil a separate pot of water and submerge the tomatoes for a minute to loosen their skins.
Peel the tomatoes. Remove the tomatoes from the water, let them cool slightly, then peel off the skins and cut them into wedges.
Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish and add freshness.
In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped beans and sauté until they start to brown slightly.
Add the minced garlic to the pan. Stir it well with the beans until the fragrance is released.
Introduce the tomato wedges to the mixture, and season with salt, pepper, and, if preferred, a pinch of chili powder for heat.
Sauté the mixture until the tomatoes soften. The goal is to have a slightly mushy yet chunky consistency.
Lower the heat and add the sour cream. Stir until well combined, creating a creamy sauce.
Add the chopped parsley to the mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
Let the dish simmer for a few more minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You may add more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed warm but can also be served cold or at room temperature if preferred.

Tips

For a creamier texture, use full-fat sour cream.
If unavailable, substitute butter beans with broad beans.
For a vegan option, replace sour cream with coconut or cashew cream.
Add red onion slices for an extra layer of flavor.
Top with freshly grated parmesan for a cheesy twist.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 8g
Fats: 7g
Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

For a Mediterranean twist, include olives and capers.
To make it heartier, add some cooked quinoa or grains.
Use different herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Serve over a bed of rice or couscous.
Complement with a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices.
Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.

Best Places

The Bean Room - Offers a rustic dining experience with a focus on bean dishes. Location: 12 Market Street, London, UK.
Tomato Haven - Known for its hearty tomato-based meals and cozy ambiance. Location: 85 Kings Lane, Sydney, Australia.
Spice of Life Café - A chic spot with a variety of spicy dishes. Location: 9 Green Street, San Francisco, USA.
La Petite Cuisine - A charming French bistro with a delightful menu. Location: 7 Rue de Paris, Lyon, France.
The Herb Garden - Renowned for fresh and flavorful herbal dishes. Location: 34 Olive Avenue, Athens, Greece.
Bistro Bella - A popular spot offering Mediterranean-inspired meals. Location: 22 Main Road, Rome, Italy.
The Spice Route - Features a diverse range of spicy culinary delights. Location: 10 Spice Avenue, Mumbai, India.
Beans & Greens - Vegan-friendly eatery specializing in plant-based meals. Location: 76 Park Lane, Toronto, Canada.
Casa Verde - Highlights the best of green and butter bean dishes. Location: 3 Palm Boulevard, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Tomato House - Famous for classic tomato dishes with a modern twist. Location: 5 Orchard Road, Singapore.