Fasolia Recipe Lebanese: Green Bean Stew With Tomato and Garlic

This traditional Lebanese green bean stew transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful dish. The slow simmering process allows the green beans to absorb the rich tomato and garlic sauce completely.

I’ve perfected this method over years of making fasolia, ensuring the beans stay tender while the sauce reduces to the perfect consistency. The key is cooking the onions until golden before adding the tomatoes.

What results is a hearty, aromatic stew that’s both comforting and authentic. The green beans become melt-in-your-mouth tender, soaking up every bit of the savory sauce.

Serve this with warm pita bread or over rice for a complete meal that tastes like home.

Ingredients for Fasolia Recipe Lebanese

Fresh green beans, tomatoes, and warm spices create this deeply aromatic stew.

The green beans are the foundation here. Look for firm, bright green pods—avoid any with brown spots or limp texture. Most supermarkets carry them year-round, but farmers markets often have superior quality during peak season. The onions should be sweet yellow for the best flavor base, and don’t rush the cooking—golden color equals golden taste. For the tomatoes, San Marzano canned are ideal if you can find them.

No fresh garlic? Jarred minced garlic works in a pinch (use half the amount). Short on cumin? Caraway seeds can add a similar earthy note, though the flavor profile differs slightly. For a richer stew, add 1 diced potato along with the green beans. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend half the tomatoes before adding. The parsley garnish is optional but adds fresh brightness.

This stew tastes even better the next day once flavors meld. Stores in the fridge for 4-5 days and freezes well for 3 months. Reheat gently to preserve the beans’ texture—microwave works but stovetop is ideal for even warming.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lebanese Green Bean Stew

This traditional method delivers rich, aromatic flavors with every spoonful of the dish.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics in Olive Oil

Heat the 0.25 cup olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. The onion should release its natural sweetness without browning.

Add the 6 cloves minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it will turn bitter. You’ll smell when it’s ready—this is your signal to move quickly to the next step.

Step 2: Toast Spices and Add Tomato Base

Stir in the 1 tsp ground cumin and 1 tsp ground coriander. Toast the spices for 20-30 seconds until they become fragrant, which deepens their earthy notes. This step is crucial for building the stew’s warm, complex flavor profile.

Add the 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. The paste should darken slightly in color, which intensifies its rich, concentrated tomato flavor. Then pour in the 2 cans canned diced tomatoes with juices.

Step 3: Simmer Green Beans in Broth

Add the 1.5 lb green beans (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces) to the pot along with the 2 cups vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The green beans should become tender but still hold their shape. If the stew seems too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Finish with Lemon and Parsley

Stir in the 1.5 tsp salt and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—remember, flavors concentrate as the stew cooks. The salt should enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and green beans without overpowering them.

Just before serving, stir in the 2 tbsp lemon juice. This adds a bright, tangy finish that balances the richness of the stew. Sprinkle with the 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The parsley should look vibrant and smell aromatic.

Dietary Considerations for These Flavors

Naturally Vegan

This stew is inherently plant-based, relying on fresh green beans, tomatoes, and aromatic spices for its rich, satisfying flavor. It contains no animal products, making it perfect for vegan diets. 💪

Gluten-Free Friendly

All ingredients in this dish are naturally gluten-free, from the fresh vegetables to the spices. Just ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free, as some brands use wheat-based additives.

Low-Calorie Option

At approximately 120 calories per serving, this stew is an excellent choice for calorie-conscious eaters. The fiber-rich green beans keep you full without excess fat or sugar.

Allergen Considerations

The primary allergens to watch for are in the vegetable broth—some contain soy or wheat. I always use Imagine Foods or Pacific Foods brands for allergen-free options.

Low-Sodium Adaptation

Use low-sodium vegetable broth and reduce the added salt to ½ tsp. The natural flavors of the tomatoes and green beans shine through without excess salt. 💡

Nut-Free

This dish contains no nuts or nut derivatives, making it safe for those with nut allergies. All ingredients are naturally nut-free, so no substitutions are needed.

Frequently Asked Questions