A creamy and garlicky Romanian white bean dip, also known as Fasole Bătută, traditionally served with caramelized onions. This delicious, vegan-friendly dish is easy to make and pairs perfectly with rustic bread or as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 2 cups white beans (dried or canned cannellini beans)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil (sunflower or olive oil works well)
- Water from boiled beans (or plain water, for blending)
For the Caramelized Onion Topping:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for color)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Beans:
- If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water.
- Rinse and drain, then boil in fresh water for 1–2 hours until soft.
- If using canned beans, rinse and drain before blending.
Blend the Dip:
- Add the cooked beans, minced garlic, salt, and 1–2 ladles of reserved bean water into a blender.
- Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed for a creamy consistency.
Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onions over low heat for about 10 minutes until translucent.
- Add tomato paste (if using) and salt, then mix well.
- Remove from heat and stir in paprika to prevent bitterness.
Serve:
- Transfer the bean dip to a bowl and top with the caramelized onions.
- Serve with rustic bread or as a sandwich spread.
Notes
The Romanian white bean dip, known locally as Fasole Bătută, is often compared to the Middle Eastern hummus, but with its own distinct flavors and preparation methods. This creamy and garlicky bean dip has been a staple in Romanian households for generations, offering a delicious and nutritious spread that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a sandwich filling.
In Romania, this dip is traditionally served topped with caramelized onions, adding a rich, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy texture of the beans. It’s a beloved dish, often enjoyed during fasting periods or as a comforting appetizer at family gatherings.
Caramelizing the Onions 🧅
The caramelized onion topping is what makes Fasole Bătută irresistible!- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan over low heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook slowly for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the onions become soft and translucent, stir in the tomato paste (optional) and a pinch of salt.
- Remove from heat and mix in the paprika (adding paprika while the pan is too hot can turn it bitter).
Serving the White Bean Dip
To serve: ✅ Transfer the smooth white bean dip to a bowl. ✅ Top with the caramelized onions for a burst of flavor. ✅ Enjoy with fresh rustic bread, toasted baguette slices, or even as a sandwich spread. For a simpler version, the dip can be served without onions, just sprinkled with a little paprika or drizzled with olive oil—a common variation in Romanian households.Notes & Tips 📝
✔️ Shortcut method: Use canned beans for a quicker version—simply rinse and drain before blending. ✔️ Texture tip: Adjust consistency by adding more or less liquid while blending. ✔️ Serving suggestion: Try pairing it with pickles, olives, or fresh vegetables for extra flavor. This classic Romanian bean dip is not only delicious and budget-friendly, but also vegan, protein-packed, and perfect for meal prep. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or sandwich spread, Fasole Bătută is guaranteed to impress!