Lobio Bean Stew for Winter
Description
A simple way to prepare ahead. The dish is made with beans and tomato sauce. Some cooks add walnuts, which enhance the flavor and complement it. Like any Georgian dish, lobio calls for seasonings and heat. Add garlic, khmeli-suneli, and basil midway through cooking. Jars keep for up to a year in a cool place.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
1. Lobio in Georgia is a hot and cold appetizer that has become well known in many countries. Besides the beans, prepare seasonings, tomato, walnuts, garlic, and bell pepper.
- 2
Step 2
2. If possible, soak the beans in advance. I usually leave them overnight. After that, add the bay leaf and cook until fully tender.
- 3
Step 3
3. Grind the walnuts in a blender. The mixture should be smooth and uniform.
- 4
Step 4
4. Shred the carrots, bell pepper, and onion. You can cut them any way you like.
- 5
Step 5
5. Fry the vegetables in vegetable oil, add the garlic, and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- 6
Step 6
6. Cover everything with tomato and simmer until the vegetables are done. This takes about 20 minutes.
- 7
Step 7
7. Pour the mixture over the prepared beans, cover with a lid, and simmer for another about 15 minutes. During this time, prepare the jars—sterilize the containers and lids. Then fill them with the resulting lobio, sterilize for about 5–7 minutes, seal, and store in the pantry.
- 8
Step 8
8. Lobio can be eaten right away. It is served hot or cold. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving and enjoy this wonderful dish.