Sides
Haricots à la Sauce Tomate (Beans in Tomato Sauce)
Ingredients
- - 300 g (1 1/2 cups) dried red or black-eyed beans, soaked overnight
- - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- - 1 onion, chopped
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 400 g (14 oz) canned tomatoes, chopped
- - 1 tbsp tomato paste
- - 1 stock cube
- - 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- - 1/4 tsp chilli powder
Method
- Drain the soaked beans, cover with fresh water in a saucepan, and boil for 40-50 minutes until tender.
- Drain and set aside, reserving a little of the cooking liquid.
- In a frying pan, heat the oil and cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in the chopped tomatoes.
- Add the stock cube, salt, and chilli powder, and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Fold in the cooked beans along with a splash of the reserved cooking liquid, and simmer for a further 10 minutes.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Introduction: A humble, filling side dish found throughout Burkina Faso, these beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce provide an affordable source of protein and pair well with rice, tô, or fried plantain.
Cultural Background: A humble, filling side dish found throughout Burkina Faso, these beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce provide an affordable source of protein and pair well with rice, tô, or fried plantain. It is a common addition to family meals, especially in rural households.
Tips: Cooking the beans separately first ensures even texture before they meet the sauce. A splash of the bean cooking liquid helps the sauce cling nicely without becoming too thick.
Variations: Add diced smoked fish for extra flavour and protein. Stir in a spoonful of palm oil for a richer, more traditional finish. Naturally vegan as written.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutrition: Approx. 230 kcal, 11 g protein, 33 g carbohydrate, 6 g fat per serving (based on 5 servings).
FAQs:
Q: Can canned beans be used to save time?
A: Yes, use two 400 g (14 oz) cans, drained and rinsed, and skip the initial boiling step.
Q: What does this pair well with?
A: It is a classic accompaniment to riz gras, tô, or fried plantain.