1 apple peeled cored and grated I like Granny Smiths
2 medium carrots peeled and grated
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 1/4 cups broth or water
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon dried mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
salt and pepper
3 cups cooked beans of your choice
scallion
sour cream
Steps:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
In non-stick pan heat the oil and saute the onions apples and carrots for 5 minutes until softened
Mix together the tomato paste with the stock or water
Add all the other ingredients except for the beans and garnishes to the pan with the onions apples and carrots
Stir well cover and simmer for 5 minutes
Add the beans and transfer the mixture into an ovenproof casserole Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes Do not allow to dry out Add more stock to beans if necessary
Garnish with swirls of sour cream and thinly sliced scallions if desired
NOTE I usually prepare this bean casserole a day in advance; up to the point before baking to allow the ingredients to marry
