Middle Eastern cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and this recipe for easy fasoolyah (or fasolia) – green beans – is a perfect example. This simple yet satisfying dish showcases the region's love for herbs, lemon, and a touch of warming spice, transforming humble green beans into a culinary delight. Forget bland boiled vegetables; this recipe delivers a burst of flavor that will elevate any meal, from a simple weeknight dinner to a more elaborate feast. It's incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your spice preferences and dietary needs.
This recipe offers a quick and accessible way to enjoy the authentic taste of Middle Eastern green beans. We’ll guide you through each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of tangy and savory. Ready to experience the deliciousness of these flavorful green beans? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
Ingredients
- Olive oil: generous amount
- Onion: sliced (red or white)
- Garlic: 1 heaping teaspoon, chopped
- Salt
- Black pepper: a little bit
- Green beans
- Baking powder: a little bit
- Red chili: 1/2 teaspoon
- Green cardamom powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Tomato: 1 small-medium, roughly chopped
- Tomato paste
- Water: a little splash
- Flat leaf parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Green Beans
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a pan.
- Add sliced onions (red or white) and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add chopped garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add green beans (fresh or frozen).
- Add a little baking powder, red chili, and green cardamom powder. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 2. Simmer with Tomatoes
- Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add a splash of water, stir, and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley (or coriander/cilantro).
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Tips
- You can use any type of onion you prefer.
- Frozen beans cook much quicker.
- Adjust cooking time depending on your preference for bean texture; some people like them very soft.
- Check for salt and adjust to taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 3-5g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly.
2. What can I serve this dish with?
Fasoolya is incredibly versatile! It's delicious as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, rice, or even alongside hummus and pita bread.
This easy fasoolyah recipe is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the bright flavors of Middle Eastern cooking. Enjoy the satisfyingly simple yet deeply flavorful result, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own. Happy cooking!