Serbian Prebranac (Baked Beans)

High-protein plant-based comfort food from the Balkans

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Protein: 22-26g
• Calories: ~340
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 18g
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Beans:

• 2 cups dried cannellini (white kidney) beans or navy beans
• 6 cups water for soaking
• 1 tsp baking soda (for soaking)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt for cooking water

For the Prebranac:

• 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large red bell peppers, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2-3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

For Protein Boost (Optional):

• 1/4 cup hemp hearts
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (for non-vegan version)

For Serving:

• Plain Greek yogurt
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty whole grain bread (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans (Night Before)

1. Rinse beans and remove any debris.
2. Place in a large bowl with 6 cups water and 1 tsp baking soda.
3. Soak overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Drain and rinse thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

1. Place soaked beans in a large pot with fresh water (about 3 inches above beans).
2. Add bay leaf and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender but not mushy.
4. Add salt during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Drain beans, reserve 2 cups of cooking liquid, and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetable Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add sliced onions and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until golden and caramelized.
4. Add minced garlic and diced bell peppers, cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Prebranac

1. Add sweet paprika, smoked paprika, oregano, and thyme to the pot.
2. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, cooked beans, and bay leaves.
4. Pour in 2 cups of broth (start with less, add more as needed).
5. The liquid should just cover the beans.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer on stovetop.

Step 5: Bake the Prebranac

1. Cover the pot and transfer to preheated oven.
2. Bake for 1.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.
3. Add more broth if mixture becomes too dry.
4. In the last 30 minutes, remove the lid to allow the top to brown slightly.
5. Stir in apple cider vinegar during the last 15 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Remove bay leaves before serving.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Stir in hemp hearts and nutritional yeast if using.
4. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with Greek yogurt.

Serving Suggestions

For Maximum Protein:

• Top with Greek yogurt and hemp hearts
• Serve with a side of cottage cheese
• Add crumbled feta cheese (if not vegan)

For Carb Loading:

• Serve with crusty whole grain bread
• Add roasted sweet potato on the side
• Pair with brown rice or quinoa

For Meal Prep:

• Store in refrigerator for up to 6 days
• Freeze portions for up to 4 months
• Flavors improve after 24 hours

Pro Tips for Bodybuilders

1. Protein boosters – Add hemp hearts, nutritional yeast, or protein powder (unflavored)
2. Fiber powerhouse – High fiber content aids digestion and satiety
3. Plant-based complete meal – Beans provide all essential amino acids
4. Slow-release energy – Complex carbs provide sustained energy for workouts
5. Anti-inflammatory – Paprika and herbs provide antioxidants
6. Batch cooking – Make large batches for easy weekly meals

Traditional Serbian Notes

• Slow cooking is essential – Never rush prebranac; the long, slow baking develops deep flavors
• Caramelized onions – The key to authentic flavor is properly golden onions
• Paprika quality – Use high-quality sweet paprika for the best taste
• Family recipe – Every Serbian family has their own version
• Winter comfort food – Traditionally eaten during cold months for warmth and sustenance

Quick Version Using Canned Beans

For busy schedules:

1. Use 4 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2. Reduce initial cooking time to 1 hour
3. Add beans in Step 4 after building the base
4. Everything else remains the same

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator:

• Store covered for up to 6 days
• Add splash of broth when reheating

Freezer:

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 4 months
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Add liquid and heat gently
• Microwave: Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals
• Oven: Cover and reheat at 325°F until heated through

Total Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
Cook Time: 2.5-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy (mostly hands-off cooking)