Gigantes Plaki – Traditional Greek Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce

Gigantes Plaki is one of those timeless Mediterranean dishes that proves how simple ingredients can create remarkable depth of flavor. Tender butter beans are slowly baked in a rich tomato sauce infused with olive oil, oregano, garlic, and paprika. The result is hearty yet elegant, comforting yet vibrant.

This traditional Greek recipe is ideal as a main course with crusty bread, a mezze addition, or even as part of a holiday spread. With pantry staples and minimal preparation, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor straight from your oven.

Why Gigantes Plaki Is So Popular in Greek Cuisine

Gigantes Plaki originates from Greece, where large white beans-often called "gigantes"-are baked gently in tomato sauce until soft and deeply flavored. The name "plaki" refers to the baking method.

The dish stands out because it balances sweetness from tomatoes and brown sugar with earthy oregano and smoky paprika. Olive oil is not just a cooking fat here; it is a core flavor component that gives the sauce its signature silkiness.

When baked, the sauce thickens and coats the beans beautifully, creating a dish that is both rustic and refined.

The Ingredients That Make It Exceptional

The success of this recipe depends on a few high-quality ingredients. Butter beans or lima beans are ideal because of their creamy texture and large size, which allows them to absorb the sauce while maintaining structure.

Olive oil should be robust and fruity. It forms the backbone of the sauce and helps create that glossy, rich finish. Diced tomatoes provide acidity and body, while a small amount of brown sugar balances the natural tomato sharpness.

Oregano and paprika seasoning add warmth and classic Mediterranean character. Fresh parsley at the end lifts the entire dish with brightness.

How to Make Gigantes Plaki

Start by gently sautéing chopped onion in olive oil until soft and translucent. This step builds the base flavor. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant without browning.

Stir in diced tomatoes, water, brown sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes, and paprika seasoning. Let the sauce simmer so the flavors can meld and slightly thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Fold in the drained butter beans and transfer everything to an ovenproof baking dish. Bake until the sauce thickens further and the beans become fully infused with flavor. The top should look slightly caramelized but still saucy. Finish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

What Makes This Version Special

Many versions of Gigantes Plaki use long soaking and boiling times for dried beans. This recipe simplifies the process while preserving authentic flavor by using quality canned butter beans.

The careful balance of sweet, smoky, and herbal notes ensures the dish is deeply flavorful without overpowering the beans.

Baking rather than simply simmering allows the sauce to concentrate and develop a subtle roasted depth that stovetop methods cannot fully achieve.

When to Serve Gigantes Plaki

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something nourishing but not complicated.

It also works beautifully for gatherings, as it can be made ahead and reheated.

Serve it warm with crusty bread, pita, or alongside roasted vegetables and salads. It can be a satisfying main course or part of a larger Mediterranean spread.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Gigantes Plaki tastes even better the next day.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

It also freezes well, making it ideal for meal preparation.

Variations and Additions

For extra depth, you can add finely diced carrots or celery to the onion base.

A splash of red wine during simmering adds complexity. Some traditional versions include bay leaves during baking for subtle herbal aroma.

If you prefer a slightly smokier finish, increase the paprika or add a small pinch of smoked paprika.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gigantes Plaki

Other Recipes to Try

• One Pot Taco Pasta
• Greek Pasta Salad
• Greek Salad
• Greek Lemon Potatoes
• Greek Chicken

Final Thoughts

I truly love how comforting and elegant this dish feels at the same time.

If you try this Gigantes Plaki, I would be so happy if you shared it on Instagram or Facebook and tagged me so I can see your version. And if you enjoyed it, please leave a comment and a star rating below.

I always appreciate your feedback and love hearing how the recipe turned out in your kitchen.

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