Description
Loubieh Bi Zeit is a classic Lebanese dish featuring fresh green beans simmered in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, perfect as a vibrant and healthy side or main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 pounds green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, sliced into wedges
- 10 cloves garlic (5 whole, 5 sliced)
Other Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables. Wash and trim the green beans, cutting them into 2-inch pieces. Dice the tomatoes and slice the onion into wedges. Separate the garlic cloves into 5 whole and 5 sliced rounds for layering flavor.
- Sauté aromatics. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the whole garlic cloves and sliced onion, cooking until the onion softens and begins to caramelize, about 5 minutes, releasing a rich, sweet aroma.
- Add tomatoes and sauce. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pan, mixing well. Allow this mixture to cook for 2 to 3 more minutes to deepen the tomato flavor.
- Combine green beans. Add the trimmed green beans along with 1 cup of water to the pan. Season with salt and stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Simmer the dish. Cover the pan and let the beans simmer gently over medium-low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the green beans become tender but still retain a slight crunch.
Notes
- Fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, but frozen can be used in a pinch.
- Adjust salt according to taste or dietary restrictions.
- For added richness, a drizzle of good quality olive oil can be added before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as part of a mezze platter or alongside rice and grilled meats.
