Gigantes Plaki

Greek · Dinner · Easy

Gigantes Plaki

Total
1 hr 30 min
Prep
20 min
Serves
4
Calories
365
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Large lima beans bake in tomato sauce with oregano, olive oil and a pinch of cinnamon until creamy inside and browned around the edges.

A long uncovered bake concentrates the tomato sauce around Gigantes Plaki. Cooked beans absorb the seasoning as the liquid reduces, leaving a rich coating instead of a thin broth.

Canned large lima beans make a practical substitute for dried Greek giant beans. Drain gently so their skins remain intact, and use a broad baking dish that lets moisture evaporate.

Method

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook onion for until soft. Add garlic and tomato paste and cook for .

  2. Stir in tomatoes, sugar, oregano, cinnamon, salt and black pepper. Simmer for , then gently fold in the lima beans.

  3. Transfer to a shallow 2-quart baking dish. Bake uncovered for until the sauce is thick and the edges are lightly browned. Scatter with parsley and serve warm.

Forkue tips

  • If using dried beans, cook them separately until fully tender before adding them to the acidic tomato sauce.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat covered with a splash of water, or serve at room temperature with fresh parsley.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

365Calories
16gProtein
53gCarbs
11gFat

Gigantes Plaki: FAQ

Are lima beans the same as gigantes?

They are a practical substitute with a similar creamy texture. Greek gigantes are larger; use cooked ones if you can find them.

Why are my beans still hard?

Dried beans were probably added before becoming tender. Tomato acidity slows softening, so precook dried beans thoroughly.

How do I store and reheat Gigantes Plaki?

Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat covered with a splash of water, or serve at room temperature with fresh parsley.

How long does Gigantes Plaki take?

About 1 hr 30 min in total: 20 min prep and 1 hr 10 min cooking.

What do I need to make Gigantes Plaki?

The key ingredients are lima beans, onion, garlic, tomato paste, tomatoes and dried oregano, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Gigantes Plaki?

If using dried beans, cook them separately until fully tender before adding them to the acidic tomato sauce.