Spanish Beans & Eggs

If you’re craving a flavorful, hearty, and easy-to-make meal, Spanish Beans & Eggs is the perfect recipe. This one-pan skillet dish combines the richness of eggs with the comforting texture of white beans, all enhanced by the smoky flavor of Spanish paprika and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is quick, satisfying, and full of vibrant flavors. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
• 20 oz canned white beans (2 1/2 cups / 400 grams)
• 4 cage-free organic eggs
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/2 onion
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (410 grams)
• 1 tsp sweet smoked Spanish paprika (2.30 grams)
• 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (3.80 grams)
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped chives (6 grams)
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Prep the Ingredients:
   Rinse the canned white beans under cold running water. Thinly slice the garlic cloves and finely dice the onion. Crack each egg into its own individual bowl, so they are ready to be added to the skillet.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Onion:
   Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. After 2 minutes, add the sliced garlic and diced onion to the pan. Mix them with the olive oil and sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Next, add 1 teaspoon of sweet smoked Spanish paprika and continue to mix for 30 seconds. Then, pour in the 15 oz can of diced tomatoes, along with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley and 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped chives. Mix everything well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Add the Beans and Season:
   Stir in the rinsed white beans and season the mixture with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined, and let the dish simmer for about 3 minutes.
4. Create Spaces for the Eggs:
   After simmering the beans, create pockets in the skillet using a spoon and carefully add one egg into each pocket. Lightly season the eggs with sea salt and black pepper, then cover the skillet with a lid.
5. Cook the Eggs:
   Remove the lid after 2 minutes and continue cooking for an additional 2 to 4 minutes. The eggs should be cooked through with firm whites, while the yolks remain creamy. You can cook the eggs longer if you prefer your yolks more set.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives over the top for added flavor and garnish. Serve the Spanish Beans & Eggs immediately, and enjoy this simple yet delicious meal!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve Spanish Beans & Eggs as a hearty breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Pair it with crusty bread or warm tortillas for dipping into the egg yolks and sauce.
• For an extra burst of flavor, top with additional fresh herbs like cilantro or a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese.
• To make it a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Storage Tips

• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The eggs will continue to cook slightly as they cool, so the yolks may firm up a bit.
• Reheat the leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
• This recipe is not ideal for freezing, as the eggs may become rubbery when reheated after being frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Variations

1. Add Chorizo or Sausage
For a heartier version, add cooked chorizo or sausage to the skillet. Brown the meat before adding the garlic and onions for an extra layer of flavor. The spicy, savory notes of the chorizo will pair wonderfully with the smoky paprika and beans.

2. Use Different Beans
Swap the white beans for black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a slightly different flavor and texture. Each variety of bean will bring its own unique touch to the dish.

3. Veggie Lover’s Version
For a more vegetable-forward meal, add diced bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms along with the garlic and onions. These vegetables will enhance the dish with added color and nutrition.

4. Make it Spicier
If you like heat, increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic and onions. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra spice.

5. Dairy-Free Option
For a dairy-free twist, omit the chives and parsley or use fresh herbs that are naturally dairy-free. Serve with a side of avocado for creaminess, or top with a dairy-free cheese substitute for added richness.

6. Add Cheese
Top the eggs with shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Manchego, and let it melt over the eggs. This will create a deliciously cheesy version of the dish.

7. Make it Vegetarian
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the eggs and substitute them with scrambled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option. You can also add some crumbled feta or cotija cheese for extra flavor.

8. Serve with Tortillas
For a more traditional Spanish-inspired meal, serve the dish with warm flour or corn tortillas on the side. The tortillas are perfect for scooping up the beans and eggs, creating a satisfying and flavorful bite.

9. Add Avocado or Guacamole
For a creamy contrast, add sliced avocado on top of the dish or a dollop of fresh guacamole. The cool, creamy texture balances the heat and smokiness of the dish.

10. Add a Touch of Citrus
For an added burst of freshness, squeeze a little lime or lemon juice over the top before serving. The citrus will elevate the flavors of the beans and eggs, giving it a zesty finish.

FAQs

1. Can I make Spanish Beans & Eggs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the beans and tomato mixture in advance. Store the cooked mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat it up, then add the eggs and cook as directed.

2. Can I use canned beans in this recipe?
Yes, canned white beans work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the skillet to remove any excess sodium.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the eggs or replacing them with scrambled tofu or tempeh. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.

4. What type of eggs should I use?
Cage-free organic eggs are recommended for the best flavor and quality, but any eggs will work for this dish. You can also try using farm-fresh eggs if available for an even richer taste.

5. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat. Adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce will also give the dish an extra kick.

6. How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?
To prevent overcooking the eggs, make sure to cook the eggs over medium heat and check them often. Remove the lid after about 2 minutes, and then cook the eggs for an additional 2 to 4 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze Spanish Beans & Eggs as the eggs may become rubbery when reheated. However, you can freeze the bean and tomato mixture and then add fresh eggs when you’re ready to cook.

8. Can I use a different type of paprika?
While sweet smoked Spanish paprika adds a distinctive smoky flavor, you can use regular paprika if needed. Just note that it will lack the smoky depth, but the dish will still be delicious.

9. What can I serve with Spanish Beans & Eggs?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with crusty bread, warm tortillas, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.

10. Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Manchego over the top once the eggs are cooked. Let the cheese melt into the dish for added creaminess and flavor.

Spanish Beans & Eggs is an incredibly versatile and satisfying dish that brings bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or a special brunch treat, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of creamy eggs, smoky paprika, fresh herbs, and tender white beans creates a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. So, grab your skillet and enjoy this delicious one-pan wonder today!

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