Turkish White Bean Stew with Meat

Time
Total Time 760 min
Health Score
Health Score 9/10
Difficulty
Difficulty Easy
Servings
Servings 6

This hearty Turkish white bean stew with meat is a protein-rich comfort food that requires overnight preparation. The key to perfect beans is soaking them in hot water the night before cooking - this reduces cooking time and ensures even cooking. The pressure cooker method makes this traditionally long-cooking dish much faster while maintaining its rich flavor. If your children prefer a thicker sauce, you can use the flour-thickening method mentioned in the recipe. This dish is particularly rich in protein, fiber, and iron - essential nutrients for growing children.

Nutrition Information

High Protein High Fiber Iron Source
220kcal
Calories
15g
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
8g
Fat
7g
Fiber
45mg
Calcium
3.5mg
Iron
0.8
vitamin b
2.1
zinc

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried white beans
  • 300g beef, cubed
  • 1 onion
  • 1 green pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon hot pepper paste
  • Salt to taste
  • 4.5-5 cups hot water
  • A little vegetable oil
  • 1 sugar cube
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon flour for thickening
  • Optional: 1/4 cup water for flour mixture

Instructions

  1. Soak the white beans in hot water overnight (at least 8 hours before cooking)
  2. Chop the onion into small pieces
  3. Heat a little vegetable oil in the pressure cooker
  4. Sauté the chopped onions until softened
  5. Add the cubed beef and sauté until it releases and reabsorbs its juices
  6. Add tomato paste and hot pepper paste, stir well
  7. Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot
  8. Add hot water until it covers the beans and meat
  9. Add the sugar cube and salt
  10. Close the pressure cooker lid
  11. After it starts boiling, reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes
  12. Optional thickening: If sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon flour with 1/4 cup water
  13. If using flour mixture, add to the stew and simmer for a few more minutes until thickened

Serving Tips

  • Serve hot with rice or Turkish pilaf
  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired
  • Can be served with pickled vegetables on the side
  • Turkish bread or any crusty bread makes a perfect accompaniment
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • The flavor actually improves the next day
  • When reheating, add a little hot water if needed as the sauce thickens when cold