Warm, hearty, and utterly comforting, this white bean ragout is perfect for those chilly evenings at home. The infusion of balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs elevates the simple white beans to a whole new level of deliciousness.
The key ingredient to pay special attention to is the cannellini beans. These are an Italian variety of white beans, known for their creamy texture and nutty flavor. They are available canned or dried in most supermarkets. If using dried beans, remember to soak them overnight before use.
Ingredients for White Bean Ragout
Cannellini beans: These beans are the star of the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying base.
Extra virgin olive oil: This is used to sauté the onions and garlic, and imparts a rich, aromatic flavor.
Yellow onions: These add a sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Garlic: This essential ingredient adds a depth of flavor.
Tomatoes: They provide a tangy balance to the creaminess of the beans.
Low sodium chicken broth: This enhances the overall flavor of the ragout.
Tomato paste: It intensifies the tomato flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity and depth.
Salt and Pepper: These are added to taste.
Fresh basil: This imparts a fresh and aromatic touch.
Fresh mint: It adds an unexpected freshness.
One reader, Goldina Andrew says:
This white bean ragout recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and comforting, and the combination of fresh herbs adds a delightful touch. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in or to impress guests. I highly recommend trying it out – you won't be disappointed!
Techniques Required for Making White Bean Ragout
How to cook the onions and garlic: In a large pan over medium heat, cook the onions in olive oil until soft and translucent, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
How to season the ragout: Season the ragout with salt and pepper to taste, approximately 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Adjust the seasoning based on the type of beans used.
How to mellow out the vinegar flavor: Note that the sauce may have a strong vinegar flavor at first, but it will mellow out as it cooks.
How to freeze the ragout: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to serve.
How To Make White Bean Ragout
This loaded white bean ragout is a hearty, low-fat dinner meal loaded with tender beans and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a refreshing sauce!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½lbcannellini beans,soaked and cooked
- ¼cupextra virgin olive oil
- 1½cupyellow onions,chopped
- 3large garlic cloves,minced
- 4cupscherry tomatoes,or grape, halved
- 1½cupchicken broth,or vegetable broth, low sodium
- 1½tsptomato paste
- 1½tspbalsamic vinegar
- salt and pepper
- 2tbspfresh basil,chopped
- 2tbspfresh mint,chopped
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook the onions, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes, until soft and translucent. Do not brown. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
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Add the tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, tomato paste and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until tomatoes are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Taste for seasoning.
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Stir in the fresh basil and mint. Transfer to serving dish, garnish with more fresh herbs if desired.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 273.12kcal
- Fat: 10.38g
- Saturated Fat: 1.59g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.99g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.34g
- Carbohydrates: 35.19g
- Fiber: 8.28g
- Sugar: 6.91g
- Protein: 12.21g
- Cholesterol: 1.80mg
- Sodium: 633.12mg
- Calcium: 128.12mg
- Potassium: 1124.07mg
- Iron: 4.95mg
- Vitamin A: 57.05µg
- Vitamin C: 20.55mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting White Bean Ragout
When preparing the cannellini beans, if you're using dried beans, remember to soak them overnight before cooking. This will help them cook more evenly and reduce their cooking time. If you're using canned beans, be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess sodium. Also, when adding the balsamic vinegar, remember that its strong flavor will mellow out as it cooks, so don't be alarmed if it initially seems overpowering.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Soak the beans overnight to cut down on cooking time. You can also chop the onions and garlic in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Canned beans: If you're short on time, consider using canned cannellini beans instead of dried. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before using.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the onions and garlic, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
Multi-task: While the ragout is simmering, use that time to prepare any side dishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Leftovers: Make a larger batch and store the leftovers for future meals. This can save time on busy days when you need a quick and delicious meal.
Substitute Ingredients For White Bean Ragout Recipe
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cannellini beans – Substitute with navy beans: Navy beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for cannellini beans in the ragout recipe.
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extra virgin olive oil – Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for sautéing and adding richness to the ragout.
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yellow onions – Substitute with sweet onions: Sweet onions provide a similar flavor profile and can be used as a substitute for yellow onions in the ragout recipe.
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garlic cloves – Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a convenient alternative without compromising the flavor.
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tomatoes – Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing convenience and consistent flavor for the ragout.
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low sodium chicken broth – Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a vegetarian-friendly alternative for the ragout recipe.
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tomato paste – Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute for tomato paste, adding sweetness and depth of flavor to the ragout.
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balsamic vinegar – Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for balsamic vinegar, providing a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the ragout.
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fresh chopped basil – Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil, providing a similar flavor with a longer shelf life.
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fresh chopped mint – Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for fresh mint, adding a fresh herbaceous flavor to the ragout.
Best Presentation Ideas for White Bean Ragout
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Elevate the plating: Arrange the white bean ragout in a circular motion using a ring mold for a clean and elegant presentation. Ensure the beans are evenly distributed and the tomatoes are strategically placed for a pop of color.
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Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate mix of fresh basil and mint over the ragout to add a burst of freshness and a visually appealing touch to the dish.
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Drizzle with high-quality olive oil: Finish the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a glossy sheen to the ragout.
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Serve in a sophisticated dish: Present the white bean ragout in a porcelain bowl or a ceramic dish to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
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Add a touch of elegance with a balsamic reduction: Create a beautiful design on the plate using a balsamic reduction to add a touch of sweetness and a stunning visual element to the presentation.
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Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a subtle hint of floral elegance by garnishing the dish with edible flowers such as nasturtium or pansies for a sophisticated and refined touch.
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Use negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some negative space on the plate, creating a visually striking and balanced presentation.
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Accentuate with microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the ragout to add a touch of vibrancy and a hint of earthy flavor, elevating the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Ragout
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Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for chopping, slicing, and preparing ingredients.
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Chef's knife: A versatile, multipurpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
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Large pan: A wide, deep pan for cooking the ragout ingredients.
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Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients in the pan.
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Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
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Can opener: To open the canned beans and tomatoes.
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Saucepan: For cooking the beans if using dried instead of canned.
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Serving dish: A platter or bowl for presenting the finished ragout.
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Garnishing tools: Such as herb scissors or a sharp knife for chopping fresh herbs for garnish.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for White Bean Ragout
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Allow the white bean ragout to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and maintain the quality of the dish.
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For short-term storage, transfer the cooled ragout to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together over time.
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When ready to serve, reheat the refrigerated ragout in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to thin out the consistency.
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For longer storage, freeze the cooled ragout in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.
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To thaw frozen ragout, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting, stirring occasionally to ensure even thawing.
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Once thawed, reheat the ragout in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You may need to add a little chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency, as freezing can sometimes cause the ragout to thicken.
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For best results, stir in freshly chopped basil and mint just before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a pop of freshness to the reheated dish.
How To Reheat Leftover White Bean Ragout
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To reheat leftover white bean ragout on the stovetop, place the desired portion in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Heat until the ragout is warmed through and gently simmering, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary, and garnish with fresh basil and mint before serving.
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For a quick and easy reheating method, transfer the leftover ragout to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and help retain moisture. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the ragout is heated through. This should take about 1-2 minutes total, depending on the portion size and your microwave's power. Stir in fresh herbs and serve immediately.
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If you have frozen the white bean ragout, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Once thawed, follow either the stovetop or microwave reheating instructions above. If the ragout seems too thick after thawing, add a small amount of chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
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For a tasty twist on leftovers, transform the white bean ragout into a comforting soup. In a saucepan, combine the leftover ragout with additional chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred soup consistency. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a simmer. Adjust the seasoning as needed and serve the soup hot, garnished with a dollop of yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh herbs.
Interesting Fact About White Bean Ragout
The white bean ragout recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed hot. It is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. The combination of cannellini beans, tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep. With the addition of balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs like basil and mint, this ragout is sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
Is Making White Bean Ragout at Home Cost-Effective?
This white bean ragout recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, cannellini beans, is affordable and packed with nutrients. The addition of tomatoes and herbs enhances the flavor without breaking the bank. This hearty dish provides a satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $10. With a rating of 9/10, this recipe offers great value, making it a budget-friendly and delicious option for home-cooked meals.
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This white bean ragout recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers several health benefits. The cannellini beans provide a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate. The tomatoes and onions contribute to the dish's vitamin and antioxidant content, while the garlic and herbs add flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy fats.
The use of extra virgin olive oil is a healthier choice compared to refined oils or butter, as it contains beneficial monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. The recipe also incorporates low-sodium chicken broth, which helps control the overall salt content.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Replace the chicken broth with a vegetable broth to make the dish vegan-friendly and reduce the sodium content even further
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika, to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile without relying on salt
- Serve the ragout over whole grain pasta, quinoa, or brown rice to incorporate more complex carbohydrates and fiber into the meal
- Top the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra boost of protein and calcium
Editor's Opinion on White Bean Ragout Recipe
The white bean ragout recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of cannellini beans, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a hearty and satisfying dish. The use of balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tangy note, balancing the richness of the beans and tomatoes. The recipe's versatility makes it a great option for a comforting weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party. The freezer-friendly option also makes it a convenient choice for meal prep. Overall, this white bean ragout is a delicious and nutritious addition to any menu.
Why trust this White Bean Ragout Recipe:
This white bean ragout recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The combination of cannellini beans, fresh herbs like basil and mint, and the rich flavors of tomatoes and balsamic vinegar creates a symphony of taste and texture. With the careful balance of ingredients and detailed instructions, this recipe promises a satisfying and wholesome dining experience. Trust in the simplicity and authenticity of this ragout to elevate your culinary journey and bring warmth to your table.
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