Silky Romanian White Bean Dip with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Introduction

This Silky Romanian White Bean Dip with Caramelized Onions is a creamy, flavorful spread perfect for appetizers or snacks. Blending smooth white beans with sweet, deeply caramelized onions creates a delightful balance of richness and sweetness that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 can white beans
• 1/4 cup bean canning liquid
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large yellow onions
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Drain the canned white beans, reserving about a quarter cup of the canning liquid.
2. Step 2: In a food processor, blend the drained beans, reserved canning liquid, half the salt, and garlic until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Thinly slice the yellow onions. Heat the sunflower oil in a non-stick skillet over low to medium-low heat, then add the onions, tomato paste, remaining salt, and half the smoked paprika. Cook gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Add the remaining smoked paprika and continue cooking the onions for another 8 to 10 minutes, until they are golden brown and caramelized.
5. Step 5: To serve, spread the white bean mixture in a dish and spoon the caramelized onions over the top. Enjoy as a dip or spread with bread or crackers.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother dip, peel the garlic before blending to avoid bitterness.
• Use olive oil instead of sunflower oil for a more robust flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dip before serving.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen with time, but always check for freshness before serving. Reheat the caramelized onions gently before adding them to the bean dip if preferred warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook the beans until very soft before blending. Reserve some cooking liquid to adjust the dip’s consistency.

Is there a substitute for smoked paprika?

You can use regular paprika or a small amount of chipotle powder for a similar smoky flavor, but adjust the quantity carefully to avoid overpowering the dip.

Silky Romanian White Bean Dip with Caramelized Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 80 reviews

This Silky Romanian White Bean Dip with Caramelized Onions Delight is a smooth and flavorful vegetarian dip that combines creamy white beans with sweet, caramelized onions infused with smoky paprika. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this dip offers a delightful blend of textures and rich, earthy tones enhanced by garlic and tomato paste.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 1 cup per serving) 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Romanian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dip

• 1 can (15 oz) Canned White Beans
• 1/4 cup Bean Canning Liquid
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Salt, divided

For the Caramelized Onions

• 2 large Yellow Onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
• 2 tablespoons Sunflower Oil
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (additional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (remaining)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans: Drain the canned white beans, reserving a quarter cup of the canning liquid. This liquid will help achieve a silky texture in the dip.
2. Blend the Dip Base: In a food processor, combine the drained beans, reserved canning liquid, half of the salt, and minced garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no large bean pieces remain.
3. Slice Onions: Thinly slice the yellow onions to promote even caramelization and sweetness during cooking.
4. Cook Onions with Tomato Paste and Spices: Heat sunflower oil in a non-stick skillet over low to medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, tomato paste, the remaining salt, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Caramelize the Onions: Add the remaining smoked paprika and continue cooking the onions for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently until they become golden brown and deeply caramelized.
6. Assemble the Dip: Spread the blended white bean mixture evenly in a serving dish. Spoon the warm caramelized onion mixture on top, creating a beautiful layered presentation.
7. Serve: Serve the dip warm or at room temperature with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

• The reserved canning liquid is key to achieving a smooth, creamy dip.
• Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat brings out their natural sweetness without burning.
• Adjust smoked paprika quantity to taste for more or less smokiness.
• For a spicier dip, add a pinch of cayenne pepper when blending the beans.
• This dip can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Keywords: Romanian white bean dip, caramelized onion dip, smoked paprika dip, vegetarian appetizer, creamy bean dip