Gigantes are plump Greek butter beans baked in a rich, herby tomato sauce — comforting, high in fibre and naturally vegan. The air fryer bakes the dish until thick and bubbling. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How do you make gigantes in an air fryer?
A: Mix butter beans with a herby tomato sauce in a dish and air fry at 180°C (360°F) for about 20 minutes, until thick and bubbling.
Q: What beans do you use?
A: Large butter beans (sometimes sold as gigantes or lima beans); tinned are fine.
The method
Soften onion and garlic, stir in tomatoes, herbs and a little olive oil, then fold in tinned butter beans. Tip into a dish and air fry until the sauce thickens and the top catches. A scatter of feta or dill at the end is traditional.
The recipe
Air Fryer Gigantes
Ingredients
- 2 tins butter beans, drained
- 400g chopped tomatoes
- 1 onion, garlic, dill
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Method
- Soften onion and garlic; add tomatoes and herbs.
- Fold in the butter beans.
- Tip into a dish; air fry at 180°C for 20 min.
- Finish with dill or feta.
Tips
- Tinned beans make it quick.
- Plenty of olive oil — it's a Greek dish.
- Great with crusty bread or as a mezze.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make gigantes in an air fryer?
Mix butter beans with a herby tomato sauce in a dish and air fry at 180°C for about 20 minutes, until thick and bubbling. Finish with dill or feta.
What beans are used for gigantes?
Large butter beans, sometimes sold as gigantes or lima beans. Tinned butter beans work well and save soaking dried ones.
Are gigantes vegan?
The classic dish is naturally vegan — just leave off any feta. It's high in fibre and plant protein.