Fasolia bil Zeit
Fasolia bil Zeit, meaning 'beans in oil,' is a classic Palestinian meze or side dish. It features tender green beans stewed with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil, often served at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for warm weather.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fresh green beans(trimmed and halved)
- 1/4 cup Olive oil(extra virgin)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Canned diced tomatoes(undrained)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1/2 cup Water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Add the trimmed and halved green beans to the pot. Stir to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture.
- 4
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, water or broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 5
Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 6
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat.
- 7
Transfer the Fasolia bil Zeit to a serving dish. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled with lemon wedges on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the green beans; they should retain a slight bite.
- ✓This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Incorporate some diced potatoes along with the green beans for a heartier dish.