Cypriot Fasolaki Yiachni
Green Beans in Tomato
A rustic and flavorful Cypriot stew of green beans and potatoes simmered in a savory tomato sauce with onions and olive oil. 'Yiachni' signifies a slow-cooked dish, highlighting the natural flavors of the vegetables.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
- 2 medium Potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium Carrot, sliced
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 cup Tomato sauce (or passata)
- 1 cup Water
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Sautéing the onion until translucent releases its sweetness. - 2
Add the carrot slices and potato chunks to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: This step helps to slightly brown the vegetables, adding depth of flavor. - 3
Add the green beans to the pot and toss to coat them in the oil. Cook for about 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: Coating the beans in oil before adding liquid helps them retain their texture. - 4
Stir in the tomato sauce and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid partially covers the vegetables. - 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the beans and potatoes are tender.
💡 Tip: Cook uncovered for the last 10 minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce. - 6
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: Fresh parsley added at the end provides a burst of freshness. - 7
Drizzle with the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil before serving. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: This dish is often served with crusty bread or feta cheese.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can use either fresh or frozen green beans.
- ✓For a vegetarian or vegan version, ensure no meat products are used.
- ✓Adjust the amount of tomato sauce and water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy touch.
- Include other vegetables like bell peppers or celery.
- Serve with a side of grilled halloumi or a simple Greek salad.