Lebanese green beans braised in olive oil and tomatoes — a simple, beloved vegan dish.
Loubieh bi Zeit (green beans in oil) is one of Lebanon's most popular meze dishes, eaten warm or at room temperature. Fresh green beans are slowly cooked with tomatoes, onions, and garlic in generous olive oil until they become meltingly tender and deeply flavorful. This humble dish is found on every Lebanese table and is typically served alongside rice or pita.
Serves 4
Heat olive oil in a wide pot. Add onion and cook over medium heat until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Add green beans, tomatoes, salt, pepper, and allspice. Stir to combine. Add water.
Cover and cook over low heat for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are very tender and sauce has thickened.
Serve warm or at room temperature with pita or Lebanese rice.
Don't rush — the long braise is what makes them so good.
Add a squeeze of lemon at the end for brightness.
Add chickpeas for protein.
Use canned tomatoes in winter.
Refrigerate up to 4 days. Flavor improves the next day.
Loubieh bi Zeit is a staple of Lebanese home cooking and Lenten fasting, celebrated for its simplicity and deep flavor.
Fresh is best, but frozen works — reduce the cooking time by 10 minutes.
Per serving (250g / 8.8 oz) · 4 servings total
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