Discover how to make Prebranac, a traditional Serbian bean stew that's perfect for a comforting meal. This rich and flavorful stew combines tender beans, caramelized onions, and crispy bacon, creating a hearty dish that's both satisfying and delicious. Follow our step-by-step recipe to create this classic comfort food in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups dried white beans (such as navy or great northern)

- 6 slices bacon, chopped

- 2 large onions, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried beans and soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

Cook the Beans: In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped onions. Cook until they are soft and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, paprika, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine.

Add Beans and Broth: Add the cooked beans to the skillet. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finish the Dish: Stir in the crispy bacon and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this hearty bean stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Notes:

- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.

- Prebranac can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors develop even more after sitting for a day.

Nutritional values

Dried White Beans (2 cups)

 - Calories: 140 kcal

 - Protein: 9g

 - Carbohydrates: 25g

 - Fiber: 7g

Benefits:

 - High in plant-based protein and fiber, which support digestive health and provide sustained energy.

 - Rich in vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Meat:

Bacon (6 slices, chopped)

 - Calories: 541 kcal

 - Protein: 37g

 - Fat: 42g

Benefits:

 - Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.

 - Provides protein and essential fatty acids, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.

Vegetables and Aromatics:

Onions (2 large, finely chopped)

 - Calories: 40 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

Benefits:

 - Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

 - Contains antioxidants like quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory effects.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

 - Calories: 149 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor and offers antimicrobial properties.

 - Supports cardiovascular health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz)

 - Calories: 18 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:

 - Provides a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene.

 - Adds moisture and acidity, balancing the flavors in the dish.

Herbs and Spices:

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin A: 5% of the daily value

Benefits:

 - Adds a mild, sweet flavor and a vibrant color to the dish.

 - Rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin A.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 2 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - Provides a subtle, earthy flavor.

 - Contains antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties.

Bay Leaf (1)

Benefits:

 - Adds a mild, herbal flavor that enhances the overall depth of the dish.

 - Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Cooking Liquid:

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups)

 - Calories: 7 kcal

 - Sodium: 350mg

Benefits:

 - Provides a flavorful base for the beans to absorb.

 - Offers hydration and minerals, particularly sodium.

Cooking Fat:

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: 119 kcal

 - Fat: 14g (mostly unsaturated fats)

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats that support heart health.

 - Adds a smooth texture and helps cook the aromatics.

Garnish:

Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish)

 - Calories: 36 kcal

 - Vitamin C: 133% of the daily value

Benefits:

 - Adds a fresh, bright flavor and a pop of color to the dish.

 - Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.

This dish is a comforting and balanced meal, featuring protein-rich beans, savory bacon, and aromatic vegetables. The spices and herbs enhance the depth of flavor, while the broth provides a nourishing base. The dish is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it both satisfying and nutritious.