Lebanese green bean stew, known as “Loubiah” in Arabic, is a popular and hearty dish in Lebanese cuisine. It’s a comforting stew made with tender green beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The dish is often prepared with onions, garlic, and sometimes meat, though there are plenty of vegetarian versions as well. It’s typically served over rice or with pita bread. Lubia is loved for its rich, savory flavors and is a staple in many Lebanese households.

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About This Recipe

Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes. One such classic is Lebanese Green Bean Stew with Beef, also known as Loubia b’zeit. This hearty and satisfying dish combines tender beef, crisp green beans, and a blend of aromatic spices to create a stew that’s both comforting and delicious. Here’s a detailed look at how to prepare this traditional favorite, complete with a homemade beef stock that adds depth and flavor.

The Story Behind Lubia

Lubia is a beloved dish in Lebanese households, often enjoyed as a family meal. The stew reflects the region’s culinary heritage. Combining simple ingredients with a mix of spices that create a dish that’s deeply flavorful. Green beans, often imported from places like Egypt, add a fresh, crisp texture to the stew, while the beef provides richness and heartiness.

Ingredients Notes for Lebanese Green Bean Stew

Fresh Green Beans: Wash, trim and cut into 1-inch pieces. Fresh green beans provide a crisp texture and vibrant flavor to the stew. If using imported beans, such as those from Egypt, they add an authentic touch.
Meat (Beef) Cut into Cubes & Cooked: Use beef cubes that have been cooked and tenderized. Choose either from the beef stock preparation or separately cooked. The meat adds heartiness and richness to the stew.
Onion, Chopped: The onion is sautéed until golden, forming a flavorful base for the stew. It adds sweetness and depth to the overall dish.
Tomato Paste: Enriches the stew with a robust tomato flavor and gives it a deep, appealing color. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for color and intensity of flavor.
Butter: Used for sautéing the onions, butter adds a rich, savory flavor to the base of the stew.
Meat Stock: The stock should be rich and flavorful, providing the primary liquid for the stew. It’s essential for creating a well-seasoned broth that enhances the overall taste.
Salt & Pepper to Taste: Essential for seasoning. Add according to your taste preferences to enhance the flavors of the stew.

Lebanese Green Bean Stew

Lebanese Green Bean Stew with Beef is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, prepared with care and tradition, can result in a dish that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this stew is sure to impress with its robust flavors and heartwarming qualities. Enjoy this taste of Lebanese cuisine and savor the rich history and tradition that each bite brings.

Serve this green bean stew with fluffy rice or alongside warm bread. The stew’s rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Green Bean Stew with Beef Recipe is by Dr.Ola of Dr.Ola’s Kitchen for Global Ramada Event – Joy From Fasting To Feasting! Thank you Ola for being part of this event.

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Stew

Hearty and Comforting: The combination of tender beef, fresh green beans, and a rich tomato-based broth creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season.

Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients like green beans, beef, onions, and tomato paste, this dish is easy to prepare yet full of flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make it in advance and even freeze portions for later, making it a convenient option for busy days or during Ramadan.

Versatile Serving Options: Whether paired with rice, bread, or pita, this stew is a versatile dish that works well with various side dishes.

Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with nutrients from the fresh green beans and protein from the beef, it’s not just delicious but also nourishing.

Authentic Taste: The stew brings the taste of traditional Lebanese and Arabic cuisine right to your kitchen, offering a blend of spices and flavors that reflect the region’s culinary heritage.

Yield: 500g

Lebanese Green Bean Stew Recipe

Lebanese Green Bean Stew with Beef is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, prepared with care and tradition, can result in a dish that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

500 g Fresh Green Beans
500 g Meat (Beef) cut into cubes & cooked
1 medium sized Onion, chopped
3 tbsp. Tomato Paste (or more for intense color)
1 tbsp. Butter
3-4 cups Meat Stock
Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

How To Make Lebanese Green Bean Stew Recipe

Preparing Beef Stock:

In a large pot, combine 4 cups of water with a chopped onion, a chopped celery stick, bay leaves, cardamom, salt, and pepper.
Wash the beef and add it to the pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer slowly for about 90 minutes.

For the Green Bean Stew:

Wash and clean the green beans, removing the two ends and cutting them into 1-inch (or larger) pieces. (I love that these beans are imported from Egypt, my homeland!)
In a separate pot over medium to high heat, melt butter and add chopped onions. Cook until the onions turn golden yellow.
Add the beef stock, tomato paste, cooked beef cubes, and green beans to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

Tips To Make The Best Green Bean Stew With Beef

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and high-quality beef will give the stew the best flavor and texture.

Blanch the Green Beans: Blanching the beans for 1-2 minutes before cooking helps retain their vibrant color and firm texture.

Cook Beef Slowly: Simmer the beef on low heat to ensure it's tender and full of flavor. Using beef with bones can enhance the richness of the stew.

Adjust Tomato Paste: Add more tomato paste if you prefer a deeper color and stronger tomato flavor.

Prepare Ahead: You can make the beef stock and even blanch the green beans in advance to save time.

Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end for perfect seasoning.

Pair it Right: Serve with rice or bread for a complete, hearty meal.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 1013Total Fat: 52gSaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 27gCholesterol: 378mgSodium: 480mgCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 4gSugar: 8gProtein: 116g

The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.