Hearty Lebanese Green Bean Stew: Easy 15-Min Prep

Name: Hearty Lebanese Green Bean Stew: Easy 15-Min Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 2 lbs fresh or frozen green beans (preferably thin French green beans); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 large onions, diced; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 2 tomatoes, diced; 40 oz tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes; Salt to taste; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; 5 lemons, juiced; Prepared vermicelli rice (separate recipe)

by Fatima Garcia

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31 de July de 2025

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Lebanese Green Bean Stew has been a comforting hug in a bowl for my family for generations. I remember my grandmother making this dish, the kitchen filling with the fragrant aroma of garlic, onions, and slowly simmering tomatoes. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of home. This particular Lebanese green beans recipe, known as Loubyeh w Riz, is incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to whip up, making it an easy Lebanese green bean stew recipe to add to your rotation. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Lebanese Green Bean Stew

This dish is a true gem for so many reasons:

Amazing Flavor: The combination of tangy tomatoes, fragrant garlic and onion, and bright lemon juice creates a taste that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Quick Prep: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table even on busy weeknights.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with vegetables and naturally vegan, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more healthy eating into your routine.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients makes this a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
Family Favorite: The mild, savory flavor makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, a true testament to the appeal of green beans in Lebanese cooking.
Versatile Side: It pairs wonderfully with vermicelli rice or other grains, showcasing the versatility of green beans in Lebanese cooking.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Ingredients for Authentic Lebanese Green Bean Stew

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious Lebanese green bean stew. This recipe relies on fresh produce and pantry staples to build its rich flavor profile. You’ll find that the combination of ingredients, including the optional coriander, creates a unique taste that makes this dish so special.

2 lbs fresh or frozen green beans – preferably thin French green beans, trimmed
3 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
2 large onions, diced – about 2 cups, for sweetness
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – essential for that classic Lebanese flavor
2 medium tomatoes, diced – about 1.5 cups, adding acidity and body to the sauce
40 oz tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes – the base of our flavorful stew
Salt to taste – to enhance all the flavors
1 tsp red pepper flakes – for a gentle warmth, adjust to your preference
5 lemons, juiced – about 1/2 cup, for that signature bright, tangy finish
Prepared vermicelli rice – for serving, as is traditional
Optional: 1 tsp ground coriander – adds a lovely earthy note, complementing the tomatoes and green beans beautifully in this Lebanese stew with coriander and green beans.

How to Make Lebanese Green Bean Stew

Creating this comforting dish is a straightforward process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. While you prepare the vermicelli rice separately, the stew itself comes together beautifully on the stovetop, capturing the essence of traditional Lebanese green bean stew.

Step 1: Begin by preparing your vermicelli rice. Cook it according to your favorite recipe so it’s ready to serve alongside the stew.
Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 3 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the 2 large onions, diced, and 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Toss in the 2 lbs green beans and the 2 diced tomatoes. Stir everything together. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring halfway through. This helps the vegetables soften slightly.
Step 4: Pour in the 40 oz tomato sauce and stir well to coat all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the green beans to become wonderfully tender.
Step 5: Now it’s time to season! Stir in salt to taste, 1 tsp red pepper flakes for a touch of warmth, and the juice of 5 lemons. This lemon juice is key to the bright, authentic flavor of how to make Lebanese green bean stew. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve this delightful Lebanese green bean stew hot over your prepared vermicelli rice. For an extra burst of freshness, I love to add some fresh vegetables like radishes or bell peppers on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best Lebanese Green Bean Stew

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this stew absolutely perfect. Follow these tips for the most flavorful and tender results!

Use thin, tender green beans if possible; they cook faster and absorb flavor better.
Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and garlic; letting them soften and become fragrant is key.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, especially the salt and lemon juice.
Letting the stew rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect Lebanese Green Bean Stew?

The magic lies in the slow simmering and the generous amount of fresh lemon juice added at the end. This combination creates a bright, tangy flavor that is characteristic of an authentic Lebanese green bean stew.

Can I make Lebanese Green Bean Stew ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This stew is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight. For more meal prep ideas, check out these easy weeknight dinners.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lebanese Green Bean Stew?

A common pitfall is using tough, old green beans, which can result in a stringy texture. Always opt for fresh, tender beans. Also, be sure to add the lemon juice at the end; cooking it too long can diminish its brightness, which is unfortunate for a dish like this vegetarian Lebanese green bean stew. Learn more about the importance of fresh ingredients in cooking from this guide.

Best Ways to Serve Lebanese Green Bean Stew

This hearty Lebanese green bean stew is traditionally served piping hot over fluffy vermicelli rice, which is a must-have for soaking up all that delicious tomatoey goodness. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying pairing that truly highlights the dish. For a more complete meal, I love to add a side of fresh, crisp vegetables like sliced radishes, cucumbers, or bell peppers. If you’re looking for another fantastic grain pairing, try serving it alongside some Mjadra with green beans Lebanese style for a double dose of comforting, flavorful goodness.

Hearty Lebanese Green Bean Stew: Easy 15-Min Prep - Lebanese Green Bean Stew - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Lebanese Green Bean Stew

This hearty stew is a healthy choice, packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of the stew itself:

Calories: 245
Fat: 8.2 g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: 7.1 g
Carbohydrates: 35.5 g
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

How to Store and Reheat Lebanese Green Bean Stew

This delightful Lebanese green bean stew is perfect for meal prep, as its flavors only get better with time. Once it has cooled down completely, transfer the stew into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for lunches or quick dinners. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is an excellent option. Properly stored, your Lebanese green beans can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions until heated through. This ensures you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever the craving strikes. Discover more about proper food storage techniques here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lebanese Green Bean Stew

What is Lebanese Green Bean Stew?

What is Lebanese green bean stew? It’s a comforting, flavorful dish, often called Loubyeh w Riz, featuring tender green beans simmered in a tangy tomato sauce with garlic and onions. It’s traditionally served over vermicelli rice. This classic Lebanese green beans recipe is a staple in many Middle Eastern homes for its simplicity and delicious taste. Learn more about Middle Eastern cuisine.

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can! Using frozen green beans is a fantastic shortcut and works wonderfully in this Lebanese green bean stew. Just make sure they are trimmed if they come whole. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them to ensure they become tender but not mushy.

What are some variations of this Lebanese green beans recipe?

While this recipe is wonderful as is, you can certainly get creative! Some people enjoy adding small cubes of lamb or chicken for a heartier stew. Others might add spices like cumin or cinnamon for a different flavor profile. You could also try a spiced Lebanese green bean stew by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of allspice.

How do I serve this Lebanese stew with coriander and green beans?

The classic way to serve this dish is over fluffy vermicelli rice, which is highly recommended! The rice soaks up the delicious tomato sauce perfectly. For a more complete meal, consider adding a side salad or some fresh vegetables like radishes and cucumbers. It truly makes for a well-rounded and satisfying plate. Explore other rice dishes.

Variations of Lebanese Green Bean Stew You Can Try

While this easy Lebanese green bean stew recipe is fantastic on its own, there are so many ways to customize it to your liking! I love experimenting with different flavors and additions to keep things exciting.

Lebanese Green Bean Stew with Lamb: For a heartier meal, add about a pound of cubed lamb shoulder to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic. Brown the lamb for a few minutes before adding the green beans and tomatoes. This turns it into a rich, savory stew perfect for a cold evening.
Lebanese Green Bean Stew with Chicken: Similarly, you can add diced chicken breast or thighs. Sauté the chicken pieces until lightly browned before adding the other ingredients. This variation offers a lighter protein option while still being incredibly flavorful.
Spiced Lebanese Green Bean Stew: Want to kick up the flavor? Try adding a pinch of allspice or cinnamon along with the red pepper flakes for a warm, aromatic twist. You could also increase the red pepper flakes for a truly spiced Lebanese green bean stew that has a bit more heat.
Mloukhiyeh with Green Beans: While traditionally made with jute leaves, some families enjoy adding green beans to their Mloukhiyeh for an extra layer of texture and flavor. It’s a delightful combination that showcases the versatility of green beans in Lebanese cooking.

About the Author

Fatima Garcia