Tavče Gravče

Tavče Gravče (Macedonian Baked Beans)

This hearty white-bean casserole is the national dish of North Macedonia, baked until the top forms a golden crust and the sauce thickens into a smoky, paprika-laced richness. Serve with crusty bread and a fresh salad.

Prep

20 min

Cook

120 min

Total

140 min

Serves

4

Difficulty

Easy

Recipe ingredients

• •500 g (17½ oz) dried white beans (cannellini or great northern), soaked overnight (8–12 hours) and drained
• •200 g (7 oz) onions, chopped (about 2 medium)
• •45 ml (3 tbsp) sunflower oil or olive oil
• •12 g (2 tbsp) sweet paprika
• •1 small dried red pepper (e.g., dried chili or smoked paprika pod), optional; adjust to taste
• •2 g (2 tbsp) dried mint, or 3 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• •1 tsp salt, or to taste
• •1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste

Steps

1. 1 Soak the beans in plenty of cold water overnight (8–12 hours). Drain and rinse thoroughly.
2. 2 Place the beans in a large pot and cover with fresh water by about 5 cm (2 inches). Bring to a rolling boil and cook for 10 minutes – this destroys any natural toxins. Then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the beans are tender but still holding their shape, about 60–90 minutes. Drain, reserving 250 ml (1 cup) of the cooking liquid.
3. 3 Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
4. 4 In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Stir in the paprika and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. 5 Add the drained beans to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and stir to coat everything. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish (ideally an earthenware tavče; a ceramic or glass dish works too).
6. 6 Tuck the dried red pepper (if using) into the beans and sprinkle with the dried mint. Pour the reserved bean cooking liquid over the top – it should come about halfway up the beans.
7. 7 Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is browned and crusty and the liquid has thickened into a rich sauce. If the top dries too quickly, add a splash of reserved cooking liquid.
8. 8 Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread and a simple cucumber–tomato salad.