Fasolia Gigantes Elefantes Kastorias

The runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus) found its way to Greece in the 16th century. The prefecture of Kastoria where these beans are cultivated is an area with a unique climate and fertile soils sheltered by Vitsi mountain and the Grammos mountain range.

These beans are white, kidney-shaped, and have a very thin skin. The harvesting season begins in September and lasts until December. The beans are sorted, put in bags, and transported to the Agrotiki Kastorias grading and packing station, where the packing procedure is electronically controlled.

To importance the bean cultivation in Kastoria is witnessed by the many bean festivals held – There is an annual fair in Lakkomata and a winter bean soup festival in nearby Fiorina, and this soup is also traditionally served on St. Nicholas's day. Fasolia Gigantes are often baked or stewed with various vegetables, but the most famous way to prepare them is in Fasolatha, a traditional Greek bean soup made with onions, celery, carrots, and spices.