Djari Loubia Djazairia
A hearty and flavorful Algerian white bean stew, often considered a national comfort food. This version emphasizes a rich tomato base with aromatic spices and tender white beans.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried white beans (e.g., Great Northern or Cannellini)(soaked overnight)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 400 g Diced tomatoes(canned)
- 1.5 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- 6 cups Vegetable or chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain and rinse the soaked white beans.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly.
- 5
Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
- 6
Add the drained beans and the broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beans are very tender.
- 7
Uncover and continue to simmer for another 15-30 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water.
- 8
Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Ladle the Djari Loubia into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for even cooking and digestibility.
- ✓Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a bay leaf during simmering.
- ✓This stew freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of saffron for a more complex flavor profile.
- Include a diced carrot or celery stalk with the onion for added vegetables.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.