Greek Gigantes Plaki

Ingredients

• 1 cup giant lima beans
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons dill
• 2 tablespoons parsley
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 large onion
• 1 large carrot
• 1 stalk celery
• 2 leaves bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups water

Instructions

1. 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and soak the giant lima beans overnight in water.
2. 2Drain and rinse the beans. Place them in a large pot with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes, or until tender.
3. 3While beans are cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. 4Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. 5Add the tomato sauce, dill, parsley, bay leaves, sea salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. 6Combine the cooked beans and the sauce mixture in a baking dish. Add water to ensure the beans are just covered.
7. 7Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
8. 8Remove foil, stir gently, and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the top begins to brown and the sauce thickens.
9. 9Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional dill and parsley if desired.
10. 10Enjoy your Greek Gigantes Plaki with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.