A humble but flavorful Lebanese classic, this vegetarian side dish of Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes is made with 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. While Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes are typically made with beef and served over Lebanese Rice Pilafwe also enjoy eating them as a vegetarian side dish.
Why You’ll Love These Green Beans
- It’s a naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan dish, so you can serve it to just about anyone!
- Seasoned with Lebanese spicesit is simple but rich in flavor.
- Packed full of veggies, it’s a great healthy option full of vitamins and nutrients.
Ingredients
- Clarified butter: Also known as ghee, it is slightly nuttier tasting than regular butter.
- Onion: I use a white onion which is mild in flavor but caramelizes beautifully.
- Green beans: Also called French beans or string beans, they are a great source of Vitamin K as well as calcium and other nutrients.
- Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes that are slightly soupy and already diced into easy to eat pieces, they are an easy and affordable ingredient used in lots of stews and roasts.
- Tomato sauce: Tomatoes that have been cooked down and mixed with a blend of olive oil and spices.
- Lebanese spice blend: A delicious and warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
How to Make Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes
Step 1. Start by dicing your onion and cutting your green beans (if using fresh).
Step 2. In a large pot, melt the ghee and add the diced onion.
Step 3. Sauté the onions until they are slightly caramelized and translucent.
Step 4. Then add the fresh or frozen green beans to the pot.
Step 5. Next sprinkle in the Lebanese spice blend and add the diced tomatoes, along with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6. Then add the tomato sauce, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.
Serve garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What pairs well with green beans and tomatoes?
Should I blanche my green beans before I cook them?
Blanching green beans is beneficial if you plan to sauté them, but is not necessary when you plan on slow-cooking or stewing them.
Can I make my own Lebanese spice blend?
Yes you can! I would suggest using about 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ground allspice and salt.
More Lebanese Food
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Delicious, comforting, and warm, you’ll enjoy these Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes even if you didn’t grow up eating them.
Your fork is waiting.