I don't know about you, but beans were a very important ingredient in our house while I was a kid. In Romania, we don't cook beans in many different ways, but those 3 or 4 dishes we do traditionally are extremely tasty and I will share them with you one day.

However, I wanted to try something different, totally out of my comfort zone when it comes to beans, so this is how this recipe was born. After preparing it the first time earlier this year, it had at least 4 comebacks in our dinner menu.

Without spoiling the surprise, I want to highlight the fact that this recipe is a delicious and unique way to prepare beans, which are one of the oldest types of plants cultivated and still enjoyed all around the world. There are many types of beans to choose from, but for this recipe, but I suggest using a combination of different beans, such as cannellini beans, white beans, and kidney beans, to create a dish with layers of textures.

Without further ado, here is what you need for these dreamy beans to happen.

How to prepare these amazing Beans in a Creamy Wonderland

• In a pot, put the beans and soak them overnight in 2 cups of cold water. As a personal recommendation, I suggest you go with more than one type of beans. The plate will look prettier and you will also have more layers of textures.
• The next day, add more water if there isn't enough left (don't discard the soaking water because you will discard half of the flavor). Add one tsp of salt and start boiling the beans.
• After 30 minutes or so, you will notice foam starting to form. With a skimming spoon remove all the foam. This process should take somewhere between 15 and 20 minutes, so don't go far as you will have to repeat the skimming process.
• When you are sure that no more foam will appear, put the stove on medium heat and add the peeled garlic cloves and the olive oil.
• Wash and cut a lemon in half and put it in the pot with the sage, thyme, and another tsp of salt.

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• Leave it to boil at medium heat for around 1 hour. Check periodically to make sure there is enough water left in the pot. You want the beans to be soaked but the liquid to be on the same level with them as you can see in the picture.

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• After one hour, taste the liquid and the beans. If they are still hard, leave them to boil some more. When the beans are soft and tender, you can remove them from the heat.
• Leave everything to rest for 30 minutes.
• Take the aromatic plants out of the pot along with the lemon.

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• In a bowl, mix the double cream with some cooking liquid. When the mix is homogenized, pour it back into the pot, add the last tsp of salt and bring it again to a boil on low heat.
• Let it boil for 10 minutes before you serve it.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also highlights the benefits of eating beans. Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and nutrients like iron and folate. They are also low in fat and cholesterol, making them a healthy addition to any diet.

To take this dish to the next level, the author suggests topping it with chili flakes or adding chopped, spicy chorizo for an extra kick. But even on their own, these dreamy beans are sure to become a favorite on your dinner menu.

FAQ

I know that many people have questions when it comes to beans so here are some the answers to some of the questions that might come around when reading this Beans in a Creamy Wonderland recipe:

Q: What beans have the most protein?

A: Some of the beans that have the highest protein content per serving include black beans, kidney beans, navy beans, and pinto beans. Soybeans and lentils are also high in protein.

Q: What beans have the most fiber?

A: Beans are an excellent source of fiber, with some types containing more than others. The beans with the highest fiber content include black beans, navy beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas.

Q: Can beans cause constipation?

A: Beans are high in fiber, which can promote regular bowel movements and help prevent constipation. However, some people may experience temporary digestive discomfort or gas after consuming beans. This can be minimized by soaking the beans before cooking, and gradually increasing consumption to allow the body to adjust.

Q: Which beans are the healthiest?

A: All beans are considered healthy and nutritious, as they are rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, some types of beans are considered especially nutritious, including black beans, kidney beans, navy beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas.

Q: Are beans keto?

A: Beans are not considered keto-friendly, as they are relatively high in carbohydrates. However, some people may be able to include small amounts of beans in a keto diet, depending on their individual carbohydrate goals and requirements. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet.

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