A simplified, no-sauté version of the Turkish classic "Zeytinyağlı Taze Fasulye." Healthy, vegan, and incredibly easy to make.
Servings 4people
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean, Turkish
Ingredients
1.1lbFresh green beans, trimmed and halved
1largeOnion, finely chopped
2mediumTomatoes, peeled and diced
1largePotato, diced into cubes
2tbspGranulated sugar
½cupOlive oil
2tbspTomato paste
1tspSalt
2cupsHot water
Equipment
Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for slow, even cooking and retaining moisture.
Sharp Paring Knife: For trimming the ends and "stringing" the beans.
Tight-Fitting Lid: This is the most important tool to ensure no steam escapes during the waterless cooking process.
Method
Clean the green beans by removing the ends and snapping or cutting them in half.
Place the beans directly into a deep pot. Layer the chopped onions and diced tomatoes on top.
Add the tomato paste, sugar cubes, salt, and pour the olive oil over the entire mixture.
Pour in enough hot water so that it just barely reaches the top layer of the beans.
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook on the smallest burner at the lowest possible heat setting. Let the flavors meld as the beans soften.
When the beans are nearly cooked (about 30-35 minutes in), add the diced potatoes to the pot. If the water has reduced too much, add a small splash of hot water.
Continue to cook until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
In Turkish culture, olive oil dishes are best served after resting. Let the dish cool to room temperature or serve warm with a side of Turkish rice pilaf.
For the best flavor, let the dish rest and cool to room temperature before serving — Turkish olive oil dishes taste even better after the flavors fully meld.