Authentic Tavče Gravče Recipe – Macedonian Comfort Food
Tavče Gravče
Today on the Takrecipe website, we are bringing you the heartwarming and delicious flavors of North Macedonia with the classic dish Tavče Gravče. This savory bean dish is a staple in Macedonian households, loved for its rich tomato flavor and tender beans. It’s a perfect meal for anyone craving something comforting and satisfying, with a balance of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side, Tavče Gravče brings the essence of Macedonian home cooking to your table.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):
- 500g dried beans (usually kidney or white beans)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably smoked)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Soak the Beans:
Begin by soaking the dried beans in water overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. This will help soften the beans and reduce their cooking time. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 5 minutes and then letting them sit, covered, for an hour.
Cook the Beans:
Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a large pot, add the beans and cover them with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Drain the beans and set them aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a deep skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Season the Sauce:
Stir in the paprika, black pepper, and tomato paste, allowing the flavors to combine for a minute or two. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
Combine Beans and Sauce:
Once the tomato sauce is ready, add the cooked beans to the skillet. Pour in the vinegar and add salt to taste. Stir everything together, ensuring the beans are well coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Bake in the Clay Pot:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the mixture into a clay pot (or an oven-safe dish if you don’t have one). Cover the pot and bake for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse further and for the dish to develop a slightly crispy edge on top.
Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a side of grilled meats for a complete meal.
Tips:
Soak the Beans Well:
🟢Proper soaking of the beans is essential for even cooking and to avoid any hardness in the final dish. Be sure to soak them for at least 6-8 hours or overnight for best results.
Use Smoked Paprika:
🟢Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of depth to the dish, enhancing the flavor profile with a smoky and earthy taste. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika can work as a substitute, but the smokiness will be missing.
Let it Rest:
🟢Like most stews and bean dishes, Tavče Gravče tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. If you have time, let it sit for a few hours or even refrigerate it overnight before serving.