Embark on a culinary journey to North Africa with this tantalizing bean stew, a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Barley, the hearty grain, provides a wholesome foundation, while winter squash adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. Various beans, each with its distinct character, come together to create a symphony of flavors. Aromatic spices, like cumin and coriander, dance on the palate, while a hint of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth. This delectable stew is a nourishing and flavorful treat, perfect for a cozy meal with family and friends. Discover variations of this North African bean stew, tailored to different dietary preferences and taste profiles. Delight in a hearty gluten-free version, a zesty vegan rendition, and a delectable variation featuring chicken for added protein. Whichever path you choose, you'll embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
MIXED BEAN AND WINTER SQUASH STEW WITH FRESH BASIL
I usually use a combination of white and red or borlotti beans for this stew. The fresh or frozen limas add a pale green, fresh bean to the mix. Soaking the beans is not absolutely necessary, but I find that they cook more evenly and have a more uniform, pillowy texture if I do.
Provided by Martha Rose Shulman
Categories dinner, one pot, soups and stews, main course
Time 2h30m
Yield Serves 6
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Drain the beans through a strainer set over a bowl. Transfer to a large, heavy soup pot or Dutch oven. Measure the liquid in the bowl and add enough water to measure 2 quarts. Add to the beans and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cover, reduce the heat to low and simmer 1 hour. Add salt to taste and the bouquet garni, and continue to simmer until tender but intact, about 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large, heavy frying pan and add the onion. Cook, stirring, until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes, and add the paprika. Stir together for about a minute, and add the garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, for a minute or two, until the garlic and onions are very fragrant, and stir in the tomatoes. Cook, stirring often, until the tomatoes are cooked down and fragrant, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add a ladleful of broth from the beans and stir to deglaze the bottom of the pan.
- Stir the onion mixture into the beans. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the winter squash and lima beans. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, until the squash and all the beans are tender. Taste and adjust salt, and add freshly ground pepper. Remove the bouquet garni. Just before serving stir in the fresh basil. Serve in wide soup bowls, passing Parmesan for sprinkling.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 237, UnsaturatedFat 5 grams, Carbohydrate 39 grams, Fat 6 grams, Fiber 9 grams, Protein 10 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 769 milligrams, Sugar 7 grams
NORTH AFRICAN BEAN AND SQUASH SOUP
This thick, hearty soup is adapted from a more complex Algerian dish that includes several types of beans and a spherical type of couscous called muhammas, for which I substitute vermicelli.
Provided by Martha Rose Shulman
Time 1h30m
Yield Serves 4 to 6
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- Drain the soaked chick peas and set aside. Tie half the cilantro sprigs into a bundle with the dried red chili, and chop the rest. Set aside the chopped cilantro.
- Heat the oil in a large bean pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the onions and carrots. Cook, stirring, until tender, about 5 minutes, and add 1/2 teaspoon salt, the garlic, paprika, and turmeric. Stir together for about a minute, until fragrant, and add the tomatoes, and their juice. Cook, stirring often, for 10 minutes, until the tomatoes have cooked down somewhat and the mixture is fragrant. Add the beans and water and bring to a boil. Add the cilantro bundle, reduce the heat, cover and simmer 1 hour. Add the squash, a generous amount of salt, and the harissa or cayenne, and continue to simmer for another hour. Taste and adjust salt. Add the vermicelli and simmer until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove the cilantro bundle. Stir in the remaining cilantro and the mint, adjust salt and serve. Garnish with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 103, UnsaturatedFat 1 gram, Carbohydrate 23 grams, Fat 1 gram, Fiber 6 grams, Protein 4 grams, SaturatedFat 0 grams, Sodium 1214 milligrams, Sugar 7 grams, TransFat 0 grams
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
- Add a teaspoon of cumin or coriander for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you don't have barley, you can substitute another whole grain, such as quinoa or brown rice.
- To make the stew ahead of time, cook it according to the recipe and then let it cool completely. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When you're ready to serve, reheat the stew over medium heat until it's warmed through.
Conclusion:
This North African bean stew with barley and winter squash is a hearty, flavorful, and healthy meal that's perfect for a cold winter day. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a delicious and satisfying stew, give this one a try!
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