Fasolada is a Greek white bean stew that is known for rich and simple flavours. The combination of beans and vegetables mean it is rich in fibre, packs a decent plant-based protein punch, and also offers a good amount of calcium, iron, and potassium.

Ingredients:

500 grams of white beans (your favourite canned variety will do!)
3 carrots
1 onion
3 cloves of garlic
3 tablespoons of olive oil
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 cup vegetable stock
1 potato, chopped into small cubes
2 litres of water

Optional:

A sprig of herbs — rosemary or thyme would work well, or a bay leaf
Chili flakes
Bread to serve

Method:

1. Drain the beans and set aside.
2. Chop the onion and garlic coarsely, and chop the carrots into round.
3. Place them all in a pot with the olive oil, and sauté for 15 minutes
4. Add in the tomato paste, sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add everything else in (beans, vegetable stock, potato, herbs if using).
6. Add the water, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 hour.
7. Add a little more water along the way if need be.
8. After removing from heat, test taste and add seasoning (and chilli flakes if you like some spice).
9. Serve with some fresh bread and a drizzle more olive oil.

Side notes:

• If you buy dry beans (not canned), they need to soak in water for a few hours before you can start your Fasolada.

*image from mygreekdish.com