Another fine meze!
Keep life simple this Christmas

Turkish white beans
Serves 6

A rich and very filling Turkish speciality with a strong spicy aroma complemented with tangy fruity undertones that can be enjoyed both hot or cold. The seasonal colours of this dish will make any dinner table attractive.

30ml/1 fl oz olive oil
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
11/2 large cinnamon sticks, broken
600g/1lb 5oz cooked white beans or butter beans
11/2tsp salt
1/2tsp coarse black pepper
1tsp mild chilli powder
450ml/15 fl oz water
300g/10oz chopped, tinned tomatoes
6 cloves of garlic, coarsely chopped
1tsp sugar
juice of 1 lemon
50g/2oz flat leaf parsley, chopped

1. Heat the oil and lightly sauté the onions and cinnamon.

2. Add the beans, salt, black pepper, chilli powder and water. Bring to the boil.

3. Simmer for 15 minutes then add the tomatoes, garlic, sugar and lemon juice. Simmer for a further 5 minutes.

4. Add the parsley before serving.

© Chico Francesco, The Citrus Tree, The Vegetarian Society, The Vegan Society