A classic vegetarian Lebanese side dish recipe, green beans are slowly simmered in tomatoes and warm spices including cinnamon and allspice.
Comfort food means different things to different people. For me and my family, the most comforting dishes are the Lebanese recipes of my childhood, passed down over the generations.
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While Lebanese stewed green beans are typically made with beef and served over rice pilaf, we also enjoy eating them as a vegetarian side dish topped with a dollop of plain yogurt or cucumber laban.
The star of the dish is the rich tomato sauce seasoned with warm Lebanese spices including cinnamon and allspice. For a Greek twist, you could also try adding fresh dill.
Frequently asked questions:
What pairs well with green beans and tomatoes?
Lebanese green beans would be delicious with Chicken Tawook, Beef Kafta, or my Hummus with Ground Lamb. Serve with a Middle Eastern Syrian Salad dressed in lemon and garlic and dinner is done.
What is tomato sauce?
For our international readers, tomato sauce in the US is basically pureed tomatoes.
Using your own spice blend:
If looking to do your own spice blend I would suggest doing 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg and pinch ground allspice plus salt.
Your fork is waiting.
📖 Recipe
Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon clarified butter or olive oil (ghee)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 4 cups green beans - cut in 2 inch pieces (fresh or frozen)
- 15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 servings All Purpose Lebanese Spice Blend
Instructions
- Heat clarified butter over medium high heat and saute onion until translucent, about 7-9 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in green beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce and Lebanese spices. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Simmer until beans are tender, about 20-30 minutes or longer if you wish.
Notes
What is tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce in the US is basically pureed tomatoes.If I want to use my own spice blend what do you suggest?
I would do 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg and pinch ground allspice plus salt.Nutrition
Want more delicious Lebanese recipes? Check out my Pinterest board!
Can I make this ahead and freeze this for a dinner party? How much would I need for 12 people? Thank you!
Yes you can! It might not taste as fresh, but green beans and tomato sauce both freeze well. Depending on what other sides and dishes you'll be serving, doubling the recipe should be enough for 12 people.
Hi,
How many teaspoons of the spice blend are needed in this recipe?
Thank you!
2 teaspoons is good! You can add more to taste :)