Taze Fasulye (Green Bean Stew)

Turkish cuisine is a reflection of the country’s rich culture, history, and geography. Its unique blend of flavors and aromas is a testament to its Ottoman and Middle Eastern influences. One of the most popular dishes in Turkish cuisine is Taze Fasulye, a delicious green bean stew that is both hearty and healthy.

Taze Fasulye, which directly translates to “fresh beans,” is a hearty stew made from green beans, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. This traditional Turkish dish is a staple in most households, and each family has their own variation of the recipe, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways.

The dish is simple to prepare, and you do not need any fancy cooking skills to create this flavorful meal. It’s great for busy weeknights as it can be ready in less than 30 minutes. Taze Fasulye is also an excellent option for plant-based eaters as it has no meat, making it a healthy and filling vegetarian dish.

To make Taze Fasulye, you will need fresh green beans, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. You will also need some essential Turkish ingredients such as olive oil, tomato paste, and red chili flakes for flavor. Some variations of the recipe may include diced potatoes or carrots, but the core ingredients remain the same.

For the best results, you can use fresh green beans instead of canned ones. Fresh beans have a firm texture and retain their natural sweetness, making them perfect for this dish. If you do not have access to fresh green beans, you can still use canned beans, but make sure to drain them well and rinse them thoroughly.

Once you have your ingredients, the cooking process for Taze Fasulye is straightforward. Begin by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil until they become soft and fragrant. Then add in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chili flakes and stir to combine. Next, add in the green beans and a cup of water and let the stew simmer on low heat until the beans are tender.

Taze Fasulye is a one-pot meal that is best served with Turkish rice or bread. The stew is rich and savory, and the green beans add a lovely crunch to the dish. You can also top the stew with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.

In Turkey, Taze Fasulye is usually served as a main dish. However, you can also serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or lamb kebabs. The dish is also flavorful enough to be enjoyed on its own, especially during the colder months when you want something hearty and warm.

In conclusion, Taze Fasulye is a classic Turkish green bean stew that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. With its rich history and cultural significance, Taze Fasulye is a dish that perfectly represents the warmth and hospitality of Turkish cuisine. Try it out today and discover why this dish is a favorite of many.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of fresh green beans
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 tbsp of paprika
• 2 cups of water
• 2 tbsp of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Trim the ends of the green beans, then cut them in half.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and paprika. Cook until the tomatoes are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the green beans to the pot and mix well with the tomato mixture.
6. Pour the water over the green beans and bring to a simmer.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cover the pot and simmer for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the green beans are tender.
9. Serve hot, with crusty bread if desired.

Optional: You can add some meat to the stew, such as diced lamb or beef, for a heartier meal. Simply brown the meat in the pot before adding the onion, then continue with the recipe as written.

• Turkish