Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the lamb and sautéing the aromatics, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lamb is tender.
DINNER
Syrian Lamb and Green Bean Stew with Tomatoes and Seven-Spice
This hearty Syrian stew, known as Loubieh Bi Zeit, features tender lamb, fresh green beans, and ripe tomatoes simmered with aromatic seven-spice. It's a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a family dinner.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Pat the lamb cubes dry with paper towels. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb in batches for 5-7 minutes per batch, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned lamb and set aside.
02
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03
Return the browned lamb to the pot. Stir in the green beans, crushed tomatoes, water, Syrian seven-spice blend, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
04
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 60-75 minutes, or until the lamb is very tender and the green beans are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
05
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
About This Recipe
This hearty Syrian stew, known as Loubieh Bi Zeit, features tender lamb, fresh green beans, and ripe tomatoes simmered with aromatic seven-spice. It's a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a family dinner.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For a richer flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a cinnamon stick during the simmering process. If fresh green beans are unavailable, frozen green beans can be used; add them directly to the pot without thawing.
Easy Substitutions
Beef stew meat can be used instead of lamb. For a vegetarian version, omit the lamb and add chickpeas or lentils for protein. A pinch of allspice can substitute for seven-spice in a pinch, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of warm pita bread is also excellent for scooping. For a complete meal, offer a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon-mint dressing. A dollop of plain yogurt can add a refreshing contrast.
Common Mistakes
Overcrowding the pot when browning the lamb will steam it instead of browning, leading to less flavor. Cook in batches if necessary. Not simmering long enough will result in tough lamb; ensure the meat is fork-tender before serving. Using too much water can dilute the flavors; stick to the recommended amount, as the tomatoes will also release liquid. Forgetting to adjust seasoning at the end can leave the stew bland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Syrian seven-spice?
Syrian seven-spice is a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend, usually containing allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, coriander, and ginger, providing a warm and aromatic flavor.
Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
MORE TO KNOW
Syrian seven-spice is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern cuisine, typically a blend of allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, coriander, and ginger. Its complex aroma is crucial to the authentic taste of this stew. If you can't find a pre-made blend, you can create your own by combining these spices. Browning the lamb properly is key to developing deep, savory flavors in the stew; ensure the pot is hot enough and don't rush this step.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK
Reviews
☆
No reviews yet
Be the first person to review this recipe.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Made this recipe?
Tell us how it turned out.