A classic Lebanese comfort dish, Loubieh bi Zeit is a flavorful green bean stew simmered in a rich tomato and garlic base, served with aromatic vermicelli rice. This hearty, naturally vegan recipe is both nourishing and deeply satisfying—perfect as a main course or as part of a larger mezze spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients. The green beans become meltingly tender in a warmly spiced tomato sauce, and the cinnamon adds a subtle Middle Eastern fragrance that elevates the dish. Paired with buttery vermicelli rice, it’s a wholesome and balanced meal that is easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners or make-ahead lunches. It’s also completely plant-based and gluten-friendly when needed.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Stew:

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed and cut in half
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup water

For the Vermicelli Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 1/3 cup vermicelli noodles
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 3/4 cups water
• Salt to taste

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Add tomato paste and stir until well combined. Then add the chopped tomatoes, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and water.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the green beans.
5. Cover and cook for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are very tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. While the stew simmers, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter and toast the vermicelli until golden brown.
7. Add the rinsed basmati rice and stir to coat.
8. Pour in water and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
9. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork.
10. Serve the stew warm with a generous side of vermicelli rice. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh vegetables if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add chickpeas: Stir in a can of chickpeas for added protein.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the tomato sauce.
• Use frozen green beans: A convenient substitute when fresh beans are out of season.
• Cilantro garnish: Replace parsley with fresh cilantro for a different herbal note.
• Serve chilled: The stew can be enjoyed cold as part of a mezze platter.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. The rice can be reheated in the microwave or in a pan with a bit of water to restore its texture. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What does “Loubieh bi Zeit” mean?

It means “green beans in oil” in Arabic, referring to the olive oil base used to cook the beans.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned diced tomatoes are a great alternative when fresh tomatoes are not available.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free vermicelli or omit it entirely, the dish can be made gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What is the purpose of cinnamon in this dish?

Cinnamon adds warmth and complexity, a hallmark of many Middle Eastern savory dishes.

Can I make the stew without rice?

Absolutely. It can be served with crusty bread, bulgur, or eaten on its own.

Is this stew served hot or cold?

Traditionally, it can be served either hot or at room temperature, especially during warmer months.

What type of green beans should I use?

Fresh, firm green beans are ideal, but frozen ones can also be used with minimal texture difference.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Rinse the rice thoroughly and use the correct water-to-rice ratio. Cooking over low heat and allowing it to steam also helps.

What else can I serve this with?

It pairs well with plain yogurt, a cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables for added contrast.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Green Bean Stew (Loubieh bi Zeit) with Vermicelli Rice is a timeless dish that brings together tradition, flavor, and comfort in a simple preparation. With its tender beans, rich tomato base, and buttery rice, it’s a hearty vegan meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re exploring Lebanese cuisine or seeking a nourishing plant-based option, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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