Lebanese Green Bean Stew (Loubieh Bzeit) Recipe – Lebanese Special
Loubieh Bi Zeit, translating to “green beans in oil,” is a cherished Lebanese dish that showcases the simplicity and depth of Mediterranean flavors. This vegan stew features tender green beans slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with onions, garlic, and a hint of cinnamon. Traditionally enjoyed warm with rice or as part of a mezze platter, Loubieh Bi Zeit offers a comforting taste of Lebanese home cooking. Its naturally gluten-free and dairy-free composition makes it a versatile addition to various dietary preferences.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time35 min
- Total Time45 min
For the Stew:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 500g (about 1 lb) green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water (add more if needed)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Green Beans and Tomatoes:
Add the green beans and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics.
Mix in chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper.
Add 1/2 cup water and stir to combine.
Simmer the Stew:
Cover the pot and let it simmer over low to medium heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until green beans are tender and the sauce thickens.
Add lemon juice just before serving if desired.
Serve:
Serve warm with a side of Lebanese rice, flatbread, or crusty bread.
Can also be served cold as part of a mezze spread.
Recipe Notes :
Olive Oil: A generous amount of olive oil is traditional, but you can adjust to your preference for a lighter version.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans provide the best texture; however, frozen green beans can be used if fresh ones are unavailable.
Spices: The addition of cinnamon is optional but adds a unique depth to the dish.
Tomatoes: Using ripe, fresh tomatoes enhances the flavor, but canned tomatoes are a convenient alternative.
Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with Lebanese rice pilaf or crusty bread. The stew can also be enjoyed cold as part of a mezze spread.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors often improve after a day.
