Macedonian cuisine

Tavče gravče (baked beans in a clay pan)

The national dish: white beans with onion, paprika and mint baked in a clay pan.

Well-cooked hot dish

Tavče gravče (baked beans in a clay pan) — Macedonian cuisine. Photograph of the dish.

Ingredients

The beans are boiled, mixed with a paprika roux and baked for 30–40 minutes until crusted.

When there are lots of herbs, wash them well and cook them in the dish; during neutropenia it is wise to skip a raw herb garnish.

The beans must be fully soft; add the mint during cooking. Skip the chilli with mouth sores or diarrhoea; it can be gassy — small portion.

Your diet during treatment is agreed with your doctor. Sample 7-day menu for the treatment period →

Cool and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking, and eat within 1–2 days. Divide large batches into small containers so they cool faster.

Once, until steaming hot all the way through; in a microwave, stir halfway.

Constipation. Fibre (pulses, vegetables, grains) may help with constipation — together with enough fluids.
Low appetite. Gives a lot of energy and protein in a small portion — can help when appetite is low.
Weight loss. Energy-dense and easy to enrich (oil, cheese, yoghurt) — can help with weight loss.

These are general observations: what suits you can change from day to day.

Phase notes are general. During low counts, follow only your care team’s food rules.

Stomach and gut. High in fibre. With bowel inflammation, diarrhoea or after bowel surgery, discuss suitability with your team.
Stomach and gut, Lung disease. Pulses or cabbage can cause wind and bloating; keep this in mind with digestive or lung conditions (bloating can make breathing harder).
High blood pressure, Heart disease, Kidney disease. Often salty (stock, salty cheese, sausage, pickles). With high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, discuss salt limits with your team.
Stomach and gut. Can be spicy. With digestive problems or mouth sores, choose a milder version.

Nutrition figures from a reliable source have not been added for this dish yet.

Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.