Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion is a delightful spread that brings the rich flavors of Romania to your table. This creamy, savory dip is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering, a festive celebration, or a simple snack. With its robust garlic flavor and sweet caramelized onions topped with smoked paprika, it stands out as a heartwarming dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick snacks or appetizers.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and caramelized onions adds depth and richness that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Usage: Use it as a dip for fresh bread or vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with plant-based proteins from white beans, this spread is both nutritious and filling.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique taste appeals to various palates—ideal for parties, picnics, or cozy dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Fasole Batuta successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the process. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Non-stick skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for achieving the smooth texture of the white bean spread quickly and effortlessly.
• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking while caramelizing onions and ensures even cooking without much oil.
• Sharp knife: Aids in easily slicing onions and mincing garlic, making prep work faster.

Ingredients

Traditional Romanian white bean spread with loads of garlic and a topping of caramelized onions with smoked paprika and tomato paste. This recipe makes about 1.5 cups of bean dip which is enough for roughly 6 servings (0.25 cups per serving).

For the Spread

• 450 grams canned white beans (one standard-sized small can (15.5oz) or substitute 1/2 cup / 90 grams dried)
• 60 ml bean canning liquid
• 1.5 cloves garlic (more or less depending on taste)

For the Topping

• 2 yellow onions (sliced)
• 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 125 ml sunflower oil (or other neutral oil)
• 1.25 teaspoons salt (more or less to taste)

How to Make Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

Step 1: Blend the Beans

Add the drained beans, 60 ml of canning liquid, half the salt, and garlic to the bowl of a food processor. Blend until very smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

Slice the onions and add them along with sunflower oil, tomato paste, remaining salt, and a dash of smoked paprika to a non-stick skillet over low to medium-low heat.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Mix so that the onions are evenly coated with tomato paste. Cook them over low to medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Smoked Paprika

After 10 minutes, add the rest of the smoked paprika. Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes while stirring frequently until the onions reduce significantly in volume and start to crisp up.

Step 5: Monitor Cooking Progress

Keep an eye on the onions after about 15 minutes of cooking time. Remove them from heat if they begin browning too quickly to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve Your Spread

To serve, spread some of the whipped bean mixture into a relatively flat bowl. Spoon some caramelized onion topping over it. Enjoy with fresh bread either as a spread or a dip!

How to Serve Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

Fasole Batuta is a delightful and versatile spread that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve this spread with slices of crusty bread or baguette for a classic pairing. The bread’s texture complements the creamy bean dip beautifully.

As a Dip with Vegetables

• Use Fasole Batuta as a dip for fresh, crunchy vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. This option is perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.

On Toasted Crostini

• Spread the bean mixture on toasted crostini for an elegant appetizer. Top with caramelized onions for added flavor and presentation.

With Grilled Meat

• Serve this spread alongside grilled chicken or beef for a savory touch. The creamy beans add moisture and richness to your meat dish.

In a Sandwich

• Use Fasole Batuta as a flavorful spread in sandwiches or wraps. It pairs well with fresh greens and roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include this bean spread on your charcuterie board alongside olives, nuts, and cheeses. It adds variety and depth to your platter.

How to Perfect Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

Creating the perfect Fasole Batuta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your preparation:

• Choose Quality Beans: Using high-quality canned white beans ensures a smoother texture and better flavor in your spread.

• Adjust Garlic Levels: Depending on your taste preference, feel free to increase or decrease the amount of garlic in the recipe for a more personalized flavor.

• Monitor Onion Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the onions while caramelizing them; they can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly if left unattended.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly impact the overall taste of your spread, so opt for fresh garlic and onions when possible.

• Experiment with Spices: While smoked paprika is traditional, consider adding other spices like cumin or coriander for an extra kick of flavor.

• Serve Warm or Cold: This spread can be enjoyed warm right after preparation or chilled in the fridge, allowing flavors to meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

Pairing side dishes with Fasole Batuta enhances its appeal and creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers – Marinated seasonal vegetables grilled until tender make a great complement to the bean spread’s creaminess.

2. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with chopped herbs and lemon dressing offers brightness that balances the richness of the dip.

3. Hummus – Serve alongside classic hummus; both spreads provide different flavors while maintaining that creamy texture everyone loves.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Bake stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and veggies as a hearty side that pairs nicely with the bean spread.

5. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add crunch and earthiness that goes well with the smooth Fasole Batuta.

6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dip.

7. Tabbouleh – This herbaceous bulgur wheat salad provides bright flavors that contrast beautifully with the savory bean spread, enhancing every bite.

8. Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips are perfect for scooping up Fasole Batuta, adding texture and making it an easy snack option!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of when making Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion.

• Using uncooked beans: Always use canned or properly cooked beans for a smooth texture. Dried beans must be soaked and cooked before blending.
• Overcooking the onions: Keep an eye on the onions while caramelizing. If they brown too quickly, they can burn instead of caramelizing.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending the bean mixture thoroughly is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency. Don’t rush this step!
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and garlic levels according to your preference for the best flavor.
• Using low-quality oil: The choice of oil matters. A good quality sunflower oil enhances the dish’s overall taste without overpowering it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion.

How can I customize Fasole Batuta?

You can customize this spread by adding herbs like parsley or dill, or incorporating roasted red peppers for added flavor.

What can I serve with Fasole Batuta?

This white bean spread pairs well with fresh bread, vegetable sticks, or as a topping on crackers for a delightful appetizer.

Can I make Fasole Batuta ahead of time?

Yes! This spread tastes even better after resting, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Is Fasole Batuta vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegan diets.

Final Thoughts

Fasole Batuta is not only delicious but also versatile. This creamy white bean spread can serve as an appetizer or a snack. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or toppings. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful Romanian classic!

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Fasole Batuta: Romanian White Bean Spread with Garlic & Caramelized Onion

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Fasole Batuta, a traditional Romanian white bean spread, brings the essence of Eastern European flavors to your dining table. This creamy dip features an irresistible combination of garlic and caramelized onions, topped with a hint of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, Fasole Batuta is versatile enough to serve as a delightful spread on sandwiches, a dip with crunchy vegetables, or even as part of a charcuterie board. With its wholesome ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthy addition to your appetizer repertoire. Enjoy the rich textures and flavors that make this Romanian classic truly unforgettable!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 450 grams canned white beans
• 60 ml bean canning liquid
• 1.5 cloves garlic
• 2 yellow onions
• 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 125 ml sunflower oil
• 1.25 teaspoons salt

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Instructions

1. In a food processor, blend drained white beans, canning liquid, half the salt, and garlic until smooth.
2. In a non-stick skillet over low heat, combine sliced onions with sunflower oil, tomato paste, remaining salt, and smoked paprika.
3. Cook onions for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. After 10 minutes, add the rest of the smoked paprika and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until onions are caramelized.
5. To serve, spread the bean mixture in a bowl and top with caramelized onions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Blending and Cooking
• Cuisine: Romanian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg