White Kidney Beans Dip (Vegan)

This right here is one of the most beloved dips in Romania! The white bean dip is super easy to make and requires just 4 ingredients – white kidney beans, A TON of garlic, sunflower oil, and fried onion for garnish. And did I mention it’s completely vegan? Yep, it’s that great! 

The white bean dip is known for having a funny name in Romanian, which would literally translate as ‘beaten beans’ (fasole bătută). This humorous name might sound like an odd choice for such a delectable dish, but it perfectly captures the essence of the dip-making process. 

To create its creamy texture, the white beans are, figuratively speaking, “beaten” into submission until they transform into a silky-smooth delight. It’s a testament to the clever and charming way that food can be named, reflecting the heart and humor of Romanian cuisine.

This dip is a delicious masterpiece that’s as easy to make as it is to savor. The secret to this recipe is to add a lot of garlic. So much to the point you start questioning your culinary choices but trust me, it’s the garlic that takes this dip to a whole new level of deliciousness. Don’t hold back – embrace the garlic and let it work its magic! 

And finally, grab your chips, veggies, bread, or pita because, believe me, this dip is about to become your new obsession!

What does this dip taste like?

The white bean dip is super creamy, silky smooth with a subtle nutty undertone from the beans. The garlic offers a gentle kick which, in combination with the beans, tastes like a spoonful of heaven.

Why should you make this recipe?

• This recipe is so easy to make, you can barely call it cooking. All you need is a blender or food processor, a few readily available ingredients, and a hunger for something delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone who’s just starting to explore the world of homemade dips, this Romanian White Bean Dip will have you feeling like a kitchen pro in no time. 
• If you want to expand your plant-based meal collection, this is the perfect recipe to add to your arsenal. It not only caters to the dietary needs of vegans but also delights the taste buds of anyone who appreciates good food. 

Ingredients

White kidney beans – These creamy, mild-flavored beans serve as the heart of the dip, lending it a velvety texture and a wholesome, nutty undertone that complements the other ingredients. 

Sunflower oil – The sunflower oil adds a touch of richness and a subtle nutty flavor, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dip while providing a silky mouthfeel.

Garlic – The star of the show, garlic infuses the dip with its unmistakable pungency and aromatic depth, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy beans.

Onion – Onions bring a savory sweetness to the mix, harmonizing with the garlic and adding an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Salt – As the flavor enhancer, salt brings out the best in all the ingredients, ensuring a well-balanced and savory profile for the dip.

Tips for recipe success

• If you’re using dried white kidney beans, soak them overnight before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and become wonderfully tender, resulting in a smoother and creamier dip.
• While garlic is a star ingredient in this recipe, it’s essential to strike the right balance. Start with a conservative amount and adjust to your taste preference as you blend the dip. Remember though, the garlic taste will be more intense when you just added it, but will tone down quite a bit after the dip cools. 
• After blending the ingredients, taste the dip and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt or garlic to achieve the perfect flavor balance for your palate.
• Allow the dip to cool for at least an hour before serving (if you have the patience – if not, I won’t judge). This resting time allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious dip.

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White Kidney Beans Dip

Course: Lunch, Dinner, SnacksCuisine: RomanianDifficulty: Very easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

166

kcal

Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious, this White Bean Dip is a must-try vegan delight. Made with wholesome white kidney beans, aromatic garlic, and a touch of sunflower oil, this dip boasts flavors that are as easy to make as they are to love. Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or snacking, get ready to savor a taste of Romania’s culinary charm in every bite!

Ingredients

• 400g canned white kidney beans or cannellini beans

• 2 tbsp sunflower oil + extra for frying the onion

• half of a garlic head (adjust to taste)

• 2 onions

• salt to taste

Directions

• Cut the onions into julienne strips and fry them in a pan until golden brown. Set aside.
• In a large pan, place the white beans and cover with cold water, then bring to a boil.
• Once they’re boiling, take the pan off the heat and drain the water, reserving about 300ml.
• Using a handheld blender or a food processor, blend the beans together with the water and smashed garlic until they turn into a loose paste. The dip will be fairly liquid when it’s hot, but will harden quite a bit as it cools down.
• Transfer the dip to a bowl and pour the fried onions on top.
• Allow to cool before serving (if you have the patience).

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