Pasulj Prebranac – The Ultimate Balkan Comfort Food with Montenegrin Vibes 😊

If you’re a fan of hearty, no-fuss comfort food, then Pasulj Prebranac is about to become your new favorite dish! 🎉 This traditional Balkan baked bean stew is a staple in Serbia, Montenegro, and neighboring countries.

It’s simple, filling, and packed with bold flavors—perfect for chilly days or when you just need a big, warm bowl of goodness.

What is Pasulj Prebranac?

Pasulj Prebranac (or just Prebranac) is a slow-cooked white bean stew loaded with caramelized onions, paprika, garlic, and bay leaves. The magic happens when it’s baked in the oven, creating a slightly crispy top while keeping the inside rich and flavorful. It’s smoky, sweet, and savory all at once—basically, the definition of Balkan soul food! 🔥

What’s the Connection to Montenegro?

While Prebranac is popular across the Balkans, it holds a special place in Montenegrin cuisine. In Montenegro, it’s often served as a side dish with grilled meats like Ćevapi or Pljeskavica, or as a standalone meal with crusty bread. In the mountainous regions, where hearty and simple meals are a way of life, this dish is a winter essential. And let’s be real—after a long walk along the Adriatic coast or a hike in the Montenegrin mountains, a steaming hot plate of Prebranac is exactly what you need. 🌊⛰

Why You NEED to Try Prebranac

✅ Easy & budget-friendly – Requires only a handful of pantry staples.

✅ Vegan & nutritious – Naturally meat-free, packed with protein and fiber.

✅ Tastes even better the next day – The flavors intensify overnight, making it the perfect make-ahead meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Prebranac

👉 Use high-quality paprika – It adds a smoky depth that makes all the difference.

👉 Patience is key – Slow-cooked onions bring out the dish’s signature sweetness.

👉 Experiment with spice – In Montenegro, some versions include dried red peppers or a pinch of chili for extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to bring a taste of Montenegro to your kitchen or just need a cozy, hearty dish, Pasulj Prebranac is a must-try. 💛 So grab a baking dish, whip up this classic Balkan comfort food, and enjoy the flavors of the Adriatic right at home!

Craving more Balkan recipes? Stay tuned for more delicious ideas! 🍽😋

How to Make Pasulj Prebranac

Ingredients:

500 g (1.1 lb) white beans (e.g., cannellini beans, dry)
500 g (1.1 lb) onions (about 4 large onions, sliced thinly)
2–3 cloves garlic (minced / about 1 tbsp minced garlic)
2–3 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on taste)
150 ml (⅔ cup) vegetable oil (sunflower or olive oil works best)
2–3 bay leaves
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tsp black pepper (about ½ tsp ground pepper)
1 tsp dried thyme (optional, for extra aroma)
250 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth or water (optional, for a juicier texture)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans

Soak beans overnight in plenty of water (at least 12 hours).
Drain, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes, then drain again.
Add fresh water, toss in the bay leaves and a pinch of black pepper, and simmer for about 1 hour, until tender but not mushy.

2. Caramelize the Onions

While the beans cook, slice the onions into thin strips.
Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and slowly cook the onions for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown.
Add the minced garlic, stir for another 1–2 minutes, then mix in the paprika, salt, black pepper, and thyme.

3. Layer & Bake

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
In an ovenproof dish, layer the beans and onion mixture, finishing with a layer of beans on top.
Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth or water if you want a saucier texture.
Drizzle a little extra oil on top and bake for 30–40 minutes, until a golden crust forms.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors.
Bonus: It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded together!