Gigantes Plaki

Discover this authentic Greek Gigantes Plaki recipe — a satisfying weeknight dish that's moderately challenging but rewarding. Made with butter beans, olive oil, onion and 7 more fresh ingredients, this recipe guides you through 2 detailed steps to create a truly memorable meal. Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this greek classic is sure to impress.

Medium
Updated March 14, 2026

15

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

280

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Gigantes Plaki

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 400 g Butter Beans
  • 3 tbs Olive Oil
  • 1 chopped Onion
  • 2 chopped Garlic Clove
  • 2 tbs Tomato Puree
  • 800 g Tomatoes
  • 1 tbs Sugar
  • 1 tbs Dried Oregano
  • Pinch Cinnamon
  • 2 tbs Chopped Parsley

Instructions

2 steps · ~40 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Soak the beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain, rinse, then place in a pan covered with water. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat, then simmer for approx 50 mins until slightly tender but not soft. Drain, then set aside.

    15 minutes
    Use a large pot to prevent boiling over. Add salt to the water for extra flavor.
  2. Step 2

    Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, tip in the onion and garlic, then cook over a medium heat for 10 mins until softened but not browned. Add the tomato purée, cook for a further min, add remaining ingredients, then simmer for 2-3 mins. Season generously, then stir in the beans. Tip into a large ovenproof dish, then bake for approximately 1 hr, uncovered and without stirring, until the beans are tender. The beans will absorb all the fabulous flavours and the sauce will thicken. Allow to cool, then scatter with parsley and drizzle with a little more olive oil to serve.

    25 minutes
    Test the oil temperature with a small piece of food — it should sizzle immediately.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Greek recipe for Gigantes Plaki is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Greek cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your greek meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Pita bread
🍽️Tzatziki
🍽️Greek salad

About This Dish

Gigantes Plaki is a beloved dish from Greek cuisine, originating in Greece. With a total preparation time of about 45 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Greek cuisine is one of the pillars of Mediterranean cooking. Built on olive oil, fresh vegetables, herbs, grains, and seafood, it's celebrated for both its simplicity and depth of flavor.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 10 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gigantes Plaki are large white beans baked in a rich tomato sauce, often flavored with herbs and spices, making them a staple in Greek cuisine.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories280kcal
Total Fat13g
Sodium418mg
Total Carbohydrates31g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein34g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineGreek
CategoryDinner
CountryGreece