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Lebanese Green Beans (Loubieh Bi Zeit) is a standout dish thanks to its simple, fresh ingredients and slow braising technique that infuses the beans with rich, comforting flavors.
This vegan and gluten-free recipe is a fantastic source of fiber, with 10 grams per serving helping support digestion and satiety.
It’s also moderate in protein (7 grams) derived from the green beans, making it a light yet nourishing main or side dish.
The healthy fats come primarily from extra virgin olive oil, rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the natural sweetness and tang of fresh or canned tomatoes provide antioxidants like vitamin C.
This dish’s slow cooking method enhances nutrient absorption while ensuring tender beans full of flavor.
It’s an ideal choice for everyday meals, requiring minimal prep and one-pot cooking, which is perfect for busy home cooks and meal preppers seeking wholesome, satisfying options.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Miyabi Chef’s Knife
Precision slicing of onions, garlic, and green beans is crucial for even cooking. This razor-sharp, ergonomically balanced knife makes prep effortless and enjoyable, a must-have for any home chef seeking efficiency and comfort.
Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot
A sturdy pot with even heat distribution ensures your green beans braise evenly without scorching. It’s indispensable for slow-cooked dishes, providing consistent results and versatility for soups, stews, and more.
Wooden Spoon
Ideal for stirring delicate ingredients without scratching your cookware, a wooden spoon helps combine flavors gently and evenly throughout the cooking process.
Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accurate seasoning with salt, cinnamon, and tomato paste enhances the recipe’s balance. Reliable measuring tools ensure consistency and perfect flavor every time.
Lebanese Green Bean Stew (Loubieh)
Equipment
- 1 Miyabi Chef's Knife
- 1 Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- Measuring Spoons (set)
- Measuring cups (set)
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium yellow onions thinly sliced
- 10 garlic cloves sliced thinly or halved
- 2 pounds fresh green beans Romano or standard, trimmed and halved
- 1 ½ pounds ripe tomatoes diced (or 2 cans of diced tomatoes if out of season)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt divided
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the sliced onions and garlic to the pot. Cook them gently, stirring frequently, for about 5 to 8 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Add Green Beans and Season: Toss the trimmed and halved green beans into the pot with the softened onions and garlic. Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt over the beans to help soften them. Stir and sauté the beans for approximately 10 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some firmness.
- Introduce Tomatoes and Spices: Add the diced fresh tomatoes (or canned if using) to the pot, stirring everything together so the tomatoes begin to release their juices. Mix in the tomato paste, ground cinnamon, remaining kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Simmer and Braise: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low or medium-low, depending on your stove. Let the beans cook slowly for about one hour, stirring occasionally. If the liquid level drops too much and the mixture looks dry, add a splash of water (about ½ cup) to maintain moisture.
- Final Adjustments and Serving Prep: Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and black pepper as needed. For a thicker sauce, uncover the pot and simmer a few extra minutes until the consistency suits you. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Using Frozen Green Beans: If fresh green beans aren’t available, use frozen beans that have been thawed. Cooking time will be shorter since frozen beans soften quicker—keep an eye and test for tenderness.
- Tomato Choices: Fresh, ripe tomatoes deliver the best flavor, especially in summer. If using canned tomatoes during off-season, opt for quality diced or whole peeled tomatoes for richer taste.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This dish also reheats well and flavors deepen after resting.
- Serving Suggestions: Traditionally enjoyed with warm pita bread and raw vegetable sides like sliced onions, cucumbers, or radishes for contrast and freshness.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika if you prefer a bit of heat or smokiness.
Chef’s Secrets to Deep Flavor
Achieving the rich, comforting flavor in this Lebanese Green Beans recipe depends largely on gentle, patient cooking and layering simple ingredients.
Slowly sautéing onions and garlic until translucent draws out their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base.
Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances both taste and nutrition, adding fruity, peppery notes.
The long, slow braise with fresh tomatoes and a hint of cinnamon allows the green beans to absorb the sauce deeply while softening to a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Don’t rush the simmering stage; the tender beans and well-balanced sauce come from allowing time for flavors to marry.
Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go, to keep the balance just right.
Lastly, letting the dish rest before serving helps the flavors settle, making every bite more satisfying.
Serving Suggestions to Complement Dish
This dish shines as either a hearty side or a light main course.
Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside fresh pita bread to soak up the luscious tomato sauce.
Pairing with crisp raw vegetables such as sliced cucumbers, radishes, and white onions adds refreshing crunch and contrast.
For a more filling meal, add a protein side like grilled chicken or lamb kebabs for a classic Lebanese touch.
A simple yogurt-based dip or a fresh herb salad with parsley, mint, and lemon juice also enhances the freshness and balances the warmth of the dish.
Its vegan nature makes it versatile for diverse dietary preferences, fitting perfectly into Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-themed meals.
Storage Tips for Best Freshness
Store any leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
The flavors tend to deepen and meld beautifully after a day or two, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much to prevent drying out.
This dish also freezes well; transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and use within two months for optimal taste and texture.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the fresh, vibrant flavor and tender texture.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Frozen green beans work well as a substitute. Just thaw them before cooking and reduce the braising time since they soften faster than fresh beans.
2. Are canned tomatoes a good alternative?
Absolutely. Quality canned diced or whole peeled tomatoes are a great year-round option when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, offering rich flavor and convenience.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, this dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs without modifications.
4. Can I add more spices?
Definitely! You can experiment with additional spices like chili flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor, adjusting according to your taste.
5. How do I know when the beans are done?
The beans are ready when they are very tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking. The green beans will lose their bright green color and become soft but not mushy.
This recipe is inspired by forksandfoliage and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.