This is one of my all-time favorite comfort foods! Mom made Fasoulia practically every other week, because we loved it. It's the Lebanese equivalent of Chili, except we serve it over rice. I often omit the meat for a tasty vegetarian version. Traditionally either Lima or Pinto beans are used, but my family ask for Kidney beans.
This recipe is high in fiber and protein, and is rich in lycopene...a cancer fighter, especially for prostate cancer.
Fasoulia or Lebanese Lima Bean Stew
- 1 Tbs. extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 medium white organic Onion, chopped
- 6 oz. grass-fed Beef or Lamb, cut into 1/2" cubes (omit for Vegan version)
- 1 1/2 c. boiling Water or hot Green Tea
- 4 cups organic Lima, Kidney or Pinto beans (boiled or canned)
- 2 Tbs. organic Tomato Paste
- 1 tsp. Allspice
- 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. Black pepper
- 1 - 1-1/2 tsp. Sea Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper (optional)
Place medium size pot over medium heat for 1 minute. Add olive oil to pot and wait 2 minutes. Add the onion and gently saute, stirring, until they turn translucent. (Remember to turn heat down a little if the onions start to really sizzle, we don't want to burn the oil.)
Add the cubed meat, and stir until meat is no longer pink on the outside. Add boiling water, cover and simmer on low heat for 25 -30 minutes, until meat is tender.
Add the beans, tomato paste and spices. Return heat to medium.
If needed add another 1/2 c. of water to keep liquid level with beans. Stir well. Once stew begins to bubble, cover and simmer for another 20 minutes. Taste and adjust salt.
Serve over Brown and Wild Rice or Whole Wheat Bulgur Pilaf.
~ Sahtein (double health)! ♥