Tavche Gravche

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tavche Gravche is a wonderfully rustic and comforting dish that’s perfect for those who enjoy slow-cooked meals packed with rich flavors. The beans absorb all the flavors of the tomato sauce, garlic, and spices, resulting in a dish that is savory and slightly smoky. It’s a vegetarian-friendly meal that is hearty enough to be a main course, and it pairs beautifully with bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you are looking for a traditional Macedonian recipe or simply a wholesome meal to feed a crowd, Tavche Gravche is a dish you’ll love.

Ingredients

For the beans:

• 2 cups dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans)

• 6 cups water (for soaking the beans)

• 4 cups water (for cooking the beans)

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4-5 fresh tomatoes, chopped)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For serving (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Crusty bread or rice (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Soak the beans:

Start by soaking the dried beans in a large bowl of water overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This helps soften the beans and reduces the cooking time. Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans.

2. Cook the beans:

In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover them with fresh water (about 4 cups). Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are tender. Skim off any foam that may form during cooking. Once cooked, drain the beans and set them aside.

3. Prepare the sauce:

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, and cumin (if using). Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the tomato sauce to thicken and the flavors to combine. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine the beans and sauce:

Once the tomato sauce is ready, add the cooked beans to the skillet. Stir to combine the beans with the tomato sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika to suit your taste.

5. Simmer the dish:

Transfer the beans and sauce to a clay pot (traditional) or an oven-safe casserole dish. If using a clay pot, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. If you don’t have a clay pot, you can also simmer the dish on the stovetop over low heat for 20-30 minutes, covered, until the beans absorb the sauce and become very tender.

6. Serve:

Once cooked, remove the Tavche Gravche from the oven or stovetop and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Total time: 2-3 hours (including soaking and cooking the beans)

Variations

• Add Sausage or Meat: While traditionally a vegetarian dish, you can add pieces of smoked sausage, bacon, or ground beef for a meatier version of Tavche Gravche. Simply brown the meat in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic, and continue as usual.

• Spicy Tavche Gravche: For a spicier version, add chopped fresh chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce to heat things up.

• Vegetable Variation: You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Tavche Gravche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans as a shortcut. If you’re using canned beans, you won’t need to soak or cook them for as long. Simply rinse the canned beans and add them to the tomato sauce, simmering for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

2. Is Tavche Gravche spicy?

Traditionally, Tavche Gravche is not spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding chili peppers or cayenne pepper to the dish if you prefer a spicy kick.

3. Can I make Tavche Gravche in advance?

Yes, Tavche Gravche can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

4. What kind of beans should I use for Tavche Gravche?

The traditional beans used for Tavche Gravche are white beans, such as cannellini, navy beans, or great northern beans. These beans are hearty and absorb the flavors of the tomato sauce beautifully.

5. Can I freeze Tavche Gravche?

Yes, Tavche Gravche freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if it becomes too thick.

6. What should I serve with Tavche Gravche?

Tavche Gravche is traditionally served with crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato sauce. It can also be served with rice or a fresh salad for a more complete meal.

7. Can I use a pressure cooker to cook the beans faster?

Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to cook the beans more quickly. Follow the pressure cooker’s instructions for cooking dried beans, and once they are done, proceed with the rest of the recipe as usual.

8. How do I know when the beans are done cooking?

The beans are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. If they’re still hard after the suggested cooking time, add a bit more water and continue cooking.

9. Can I use other types of tomato paste or sauce?

While traditional recipes use tomato paste and fresh tomatoes, you can substitute with canned tomato sauce or even tomato puree if you prefer a smoother consistency in the dish.

10. Can I add cheese to Tavche Gravche?

Some versions of Tavche Gravche are topped with grated cheese (like feta or mozzarella) before serving, adding a creamy texture and extra flavor. This is optional but can be a nice addition.

Conclusion

Tavche Gravche is a delicious and comforting dish that is simple to prepare yet full of rich flavors. The combination of tender beans, savory tomato sauce, and aromatic spices makes it a perfect meal for any time of year. Whether you make it as a vegetarian dish or with the addition of smoked sausage or bacon, Tavche Gravche is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with crusty bread or rice, and enjoy this traditional Macedonian comfort food that is both satisfying and full of flavor.