Description
Tavche Gravche is a traditional Macedonian dish made of slow-cooked white beans in a rich tomato sauce, with garlic, onions, and spices. It’s a comforting and hearty casserole, often served with bread or rice, and can be made vegetarian or with added meats like sausage or bacon.
Ingredients
- 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)
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
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Crusty bread or rice (for serving)
Instructions
Soak the beans: Soak the dried beans in a large bowl of water overnight, or for at least 6 hours. Drain and rinse the beans after soaking.
- Cook the beans: In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover them with fresh water (about 4 cups). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender. Drain the beans and set them aside.
- 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. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, and cumin. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the beans and sauce: Add the cooked beans to the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Simmer the dish: Transfer to a clay pot or oven-safe casserole dish. If using a clay pot, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes. For stovetop, cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes over low heat.
- Serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and serve with crusty bread or rice.
Notes
- Meat Option: Add smoked sausage, bacon, or ground beef for a meaty version.
- Spicy Version: Add chili peppers or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Vegetable Variation: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the sauce for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Macedonian, Casserole
- Method: Simmering, Baking
- Cuisine: Macedonian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
