Butter Beans Alla Vodka is a creamy, indulgent dish that combines tender butter beans with a rich, vodka-infused tomato sauce. This recipe elevates a classic vodka sauce by pairing it with hearty butter beans, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish is both versatile and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The vodka sauce is luxuriously creamy, with a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the butter beans.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty plant-based dish that satisfies even the most discerning palates.
- Customizable: Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or as a standalone entrée.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups canned butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
- Deglaze with Vodka:
- Carefully pour in the vodka, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate Cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add Butter Beans:
- Gently fold in the butter beans, ensuring they are fully coated in the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Variations
- Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based Parmesan substitute.
- Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a non-vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the sauce (without the beans) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir in beans when reheating.
FAQ
1. Can I use dried butter beans?
Yes, but they need to be soaked and cooked beforehand. Using canned butter beans saves time.
2. Is the vodka necessary?
Vodka enhances the flavor of the sauce, but you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable stock if desired.
3. Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, cannellini beans or great northern beans work well as substitutes.
4. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce longer or add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like oat or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
