Name: Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces fresh green beans, cut into 2 inch pieces; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 (14 ounce/400 gram) can diced tomatoes; 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 5 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 ½ cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for serving; ½ cup slivered almonds

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 61 reviews

If there’s one dish that perfectly marries comfort with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors, it’s this Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe. Imagine fresh green beans simmered to tender perfection in a fragrant tomato base, enriched with earthy chickpeas and the satisfying crunch of almonds. This stew isn’t just about taste—it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients blending together in a way that feels both cozy and refreshingly light. Whether you’re craving a nourishing weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends with something a little different, this recipe brings warmth and zest to your table in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a large light beige pot with a blue handle at the side shows small pieces of cooked onions that are golden and slightly browned, scattered unevenly along the pot's curved inner surface. A wooden spoon with natural wood grain coloring is stirring the onions near the right side of the pot. The pot sits on a plain, white marbled surface, with a whitish cloth with light gray spots blurred in the background. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the texture of the onions. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this stew so special is how simple and accessible each component is, yet how each one plays a vital role in creating a depth of flavor, texture, and color that sings on the palate.

2 tablespoons olive oil: A rich base that gently sautés the aromatics and lends a silky mouthfeel.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a caramelized depth when cooked low and slow.
5 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the stew with a beautiful, pungent warmth.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides that earthy, slightly smoky undertone essential to Lebanese cooking.
1 ½ cups vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that brings all ingredients together and melds the taste.
1 (14 ounce/400 gram) can diced tomatoes: Gives body, acidity, and that vibrant red color.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce for a luscious finish.
12 ounces fresh green beans, cut into 2 inch pieces: The star vegetable adding fresh snap and bright green hues.
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed: For hearty protein and a creamy texture contrast.
½ cup slivered almonds: Adds an unexpected nutty crunch that makes every bite interesting.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that make all the flavors pop.
Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for serving: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note and pretty garnish.

How to Make Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil over medium-low heat in a medium pot—this slow heat is key to coaxing the deep flavors out of the onion. Add the diced onion and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions develop a gorgeous caramel color. This patience pays off with a sweet, mellow base for your stew.

Step 2: Add garlic and cumin

Next, raise the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin. Cook this fragrant mixture for about a minute while stirring constantly so nothing burns. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with the intoxicating scent of cumin—a hint of the Middle Eastern flair that defines this Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe.

Step 3: Combine broth and tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. The tomatoes bring freshness and acidity, while the broth sets the stage for everything to come together in a harmonious simmer. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Add vegetables and chickpeas

Now it’s time for the heart of the dish—the green beans, chickpeas, and slivered almonds go right into the pot. Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer until just tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes, just enough for the green beans to start softening without losing their lovely vibrant color and snap.

Step 6: Uncover and thicken

Remove the lid and continue simmering for another 20 to 30 minutes. This step lets the sauce thicken beautifully and the green beans soften to your desired tenderness. If the stew becomes too thick, a splash of water helps maintain that perfect consistency.

Step 7: Season and serve

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous contrast that lifts the whole dish.

How to Serve Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe

A blue pot with white inside contains a vegetable stew with three main visible layers: green beans cut into small pieces, round beige chickpeas, and diced red tomatoes, all mixed in a reddish-orange sauce. The stew is garnished with small green parsley bits on top. A wooden spoon with natural wood grain is stirring the stew inside the pot. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with blurred green herbs in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic here—its vivid green pops against the rich tomato base and adds freshness. For a little extra crunch and aroma, you can also toss on a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

This stew shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous or warm, crusty bread to soak up all that luscious sauce. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of creamy labneh will also complement the flavors and keep things light and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe in charming individual earthenware bowls for an authentic feel. Or spread it over a bed of grains like quinoa or bulgur wheat to turn it into a satisfying one-bowl meal that’s both pretty and practical for busy evenings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness of the green beans and the vibrancy of the tomato sauce. The flavors even deepen after resting, making leftovers a true treat.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe later, freezing works well too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave some room at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it looks too thick, add a splash of water or broth. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between sessions for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen green beans are a convenient substitute. Add them during the simmering stage and adjust cooking time as needed since they’re usually pre-blanched. Just keep an eye on texture to avoid overcooking.

Is this stew vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for many dietary needs without any changes.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Feel free to mix in chopped carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes for extra heartiness. Just add them at the same time as the green beans and adjust cooking times so everything softens perfectly.

How spicy is this stew?

This recipe isn’t spicy in terms of heat but offers plenty of warm, aromatic flavor thanks to the cumin and garlic. If you love spice, a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne can be added during cooking.

What can I use instead of slivered almonds?

If almonds aren’t your thing or you have allergies, toasted pine nuts or walnuts make excellent alternatives. They will still provide that delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the stew beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a comforting, flavorful, and wholesome recipe to your dinner repertoire, this Lebanese-Inspired Green Bean Stew Recipe is a must-try. Its vibrant ingredients, heartwarming spices, and satisfying textures create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—there’s nothing like a little taste of Lebanon to brighten your day!