Spanish Beans & Eggs, or “Una Sarten de Alubias y Huevos,” is a hearty, one-pan dish perfect for any meal. Featuring creamy white beans, rich tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and luscious poached eggs, this recipe brings together bold Mediterranean flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend brunches.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
20 oz canned white beans (2 ½ cups / 400 g)
4 cage-free organic eggs
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ onion, finely diced
15 oz canned diced tomatoes (410 g)
1 tsp sweet smoked Spanish paprika (2.30 g)
1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (3.80 g)
2 tbsp freshly chopped chives (6 g)
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Prepare Ingredients:
Rinse white beans under cold water. Thinly slice the garlic, finely dice the onion, and crack the eggs into individual bowls.
Cook the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion for 3 minutes until fragrant. Add smoked paprika and mix for 30 seconds.
Make the Sauce:
Add diced tomatoes, parsley, and 1 tbsp of chives. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in the white beans and let simmer for another 3 minutes.
Cook the Eggs:
Create small pockets in the skillet and gently pour each egg into its own pocket. Lightly season eggs with sea salt and black pepper. Cover the pan and cook for 2 minutes, then uncover and cook for an additional 2–4 minutes until the egg whites are set but yolks remain creamy.
Serve:
Remove from heat, garnish with the remaining chives, and serve immediately. Enjoy with crusty bread or roasted potatoes.

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: Approx. 1 serving
Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: High (from beans and eggs)
Fiber: High (from white beans)
Dietary Notes: Gluten-free and vegetarian

This quick, flavorful dish is a nutritious addition to any meal, offering a balance of hearty proteins, fibers, and rich Mediterranean flavors.

Spanish Beans & Eggs: A Mediterranean Delight

Spanish Beans & Eggs, or “Una Sarten de Alubias y Huevos,” is a quintessential Mediterranean dish that combines the bold, smoky flavors of Spain with the comforting warmth of a one-pan meal. Its simplicity, speed of preparation, and robust nutritional profile make it a staple in Spanish households and an ideal recipe for home cooks seeking something wholesome yet flavorful. This article explores the history, cultural significance, and versatility of this dish, highlighting why it deserves a prominent spot in your recipe repertoire.

The Essence of Spanish Beans & Eggs

At its heart, Spanish Beans & Eggs is an exercise in the harmony of ingredients. The creamy texture of white beans is the perfect counterbalance to the rich, savory tomato sauce. The addition of smoked paprika—a hallmark of Spanish cuisine—infuses the dish with a depth of flavor reminiscent of rustic cooking traditions. The crowning touch is the poached eggs, their yolks oozing luxuriously into the sauce, creating a creamy, velvety finish that binds all the elements together.

This dish embodies the Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its health benefits and use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Spanish Beans & Eggs adheres to the principles of this diet, showcasing plant-based proteins, heart-healthy olive oil, and nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a nutritional powerhouse.

Origins and Cultural Significance

The roots of Spanish Beans & Eggs can be traced to the humble kitchens of Spain, where home cooks relied on pantry staples to create hearty and satisfying meals. Beans, a vital source of sustenance throughout Mediterranean history, have been cultivated in Spain for centuries. The introduction of tomatoes to Europe in the 16th century, following their discovery in the Americas, revolutionized Spanish cuisine, giving rise to dishes like this one.

Smoked paprika, or pimentón, is another cornerstone of this dish. Originating from the La Vera region of Spain, this spice is deeply intertwined with Spanish culinary traditions, lending its smoky, earthy notes to countless recipes. Together, these ingredients form a tapestry of flavors that captures the essence of Spain’s culinary heritage.

Beyond its historical roots, this dish holds a special place in Spanish households. Its versatility makes it suitable for any meal, from breakfast to dinner, and it’s particularly cherished for its ability to bring people together around the table. Whether shared as part of a leisurely Sunday brunch or whipped up for a quick midweek dinner, Spanish Beans & Eggs embodies the communal spirit of Mediterranean dining.

A Dish for Every Occasion

One of the standout features of Spanish Beans & Eggs is its versatility. While the core ingredients remain constant, the recipe is highly adaptable, allowing cooks to tailor it to their preferences or the ingredients they have on hand. For example:

Meaty Variations: For non-vegetarian adaptations, adding slices of Spanish chorizo or cubes of jamón (cured ham) introduces a smoky, savory dimension that complements the beans and tomato sauce.
Vegan Alternative: By substituting the eggs with plant-based proteins like tofu or adding a splash of coconut cream for richness, the dish can easily be transformed into a vegan-friendly option.
Spice it Up: Those who love heat can incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish for an extra kick.
Regional Twists: Incorporate ingredients like roasted red peppers or artichokes to add a layer of complexity and mimic regional variations found across Spain.

The dish’s adaptability extends to its accompaniments as well. Traditionally served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, it pairs equally well with roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or even a fresh side salad for a lighter meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Spanish Beans & Eggs is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s a closer look at the health benefits it offers:

Rich in Protein: The combination of eggs and white beans provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall vitality.
High in Fiber: White beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health.
Packed with Vitamins: Tomatoes contribute a significant dose of vitamins A and C, while eggs provide essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline.
Low in Calories: With approximately 320 calories per serving, this dish is a light yet satisfying option for those monitoring their caloric intake.

The gluten-free and vegetarian nature of this recipe further broadens its appeal, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

The Art of Preparation

While the recipe is straightforward, a few tips can elevate your Spanish Beans & Eggs to new heights:

Quality Ingredients: Since this dish relies on simple ingredients, their quality is paramount. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and beans, fresh herbs, and premium smoked paprika.
Egg Perfection: To achieve perfectly poached eggs with creamy yolks, keep a close eye on the cooking time and adjust according to your preference for yolk consistency.
Finishing Touches: Fresh herbs like parsley and chives add a burst of color and freshness to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Ease

In today’s fast-paced world, finding recipes that are both flavorful and easy to prepare is a gift. Spanish Beans & Eggs checks all the boxes, offering a quick, one-pan meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. Its vibrant flavors transport you to the sun-drenched coasts of Spain, while its simplicity makes it a reliable go-to for any day of the week.

Conclusion

Spanish Beans & Eggs, or Una Sarten de Alubias y Huevos, is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of Mediterranean cooking at its finest. With its rich history, bold flavors, and incredible versatility, this dish encapsulates the joy of home-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul. Whether you’re savoring it for a leisurely brunch or a quick dinner, it’s a dish that never fails to delight. Add it to your culinary repertoire, and you’ll find yourself returning to it time and again—proof that the simplest meals are often the most memorable.

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Spanish Beans & Eggs