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Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes and Spices Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

A traditional Lebanese dish featuring tender green beans simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. This comforting and healthy recipe is perfect as a main or side dish served warm over rice or quinoa, accompanied by pita bread and yogurt.

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound green beans, fresh or frozen

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Other Ingredients

  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic: Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavor.
  3. Combine ingredients: Add the green beans, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and diced tomatoes with their juices to the pan. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine flavors.
  4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender and infused with spices.
  5. Adjust seasoning: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
  6. Serve: Enjoy the Lebanese green beans warm, served over rice or quinoa, accompanied by pita bread and yogurt for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a heartier version, add meat (such as ground lamb or beef) after sautéing the garlic and cook for an additional 4 minutes.
  • Fresh green beans provide the best texture, but frozen green beans can be used as a convenient alternative.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
  • Serve with a side of plain yogurt or labneh to balance the spices.
  • Adjust the cinnamon quantity based on your preference for warmth and sweetness.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Lebanese