A Taste of Tradition
My Favorite is Greek Green Bean Stew and Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen, I always looked forward to her Greek Green Bean Stew, or as we call it, Fasolakia. The aroma of fresh green beans and ripe tomatoes simmering on the stove was my favorite part of visiting her house. Every time she made it, I knew we were in for a comforting meal that brought the family together. The way she cooked was almost magical—simple ingredients transformed into something so delicious and satisfying.
The Joy of Cooking
One Sunday, I decided to make the stew myself, hoping to capture a bit of that magic. I carefully trimmed the green beans and chopped the tomatoes, just like Grandma used to. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through each step, from sautéing the onions in rich olive oil to adding the tomato paste and a pinch of sugar for a touch of sweetness. As the stew simmered on the stove, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and connection to my heritage.
The Perfect Meal
When the stew was ready, I served it with crusty bread and crumbled feta cheese, just like Grandma always did. The rich tomato base and vibrant green beans looked perfect in the bowl. With each bite, I felt like I was sitting at Grandma’s table again, enjoying a meal that was not just food but a comforting embrace. It was a taste of home, reminding me of family gatherings and the love that went into every meal.
A Simple Delight
Even though I was cooking alone, I felt surrounded by the warmth and joy of those family meals. The Greek Green Bean Stew was everything I hoped it would be: hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It wasn’t just a dish; it was a way to honor my grandmother and keep our family traditions alive. Each spoonful was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that hold the most meaning.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Greek Green Bean Stew
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor of the stew. The olive oil is a key component of the dish, adding richness and depth.
- Fresh tomatoes give the best flavor, but canned crushed tomatoes are a good substitute if fresh are not available. If using canned tomatoes, opt for a brand with minimal added ingredients.
- Keep an eye on the stew’s consistency as it cooks. If it gets too thick, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency. The stew should be hearty but not overly soupy.
- Adding a pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Top the stew with crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil just before serving. This adds a nice contrast to the rich tomato base and enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
Greek Green Bean Stew
Dive into the heart of Greek cuisine with this comforting Green Bean Stew! Packed with fresh green beans, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a vegetarian and vegan delight. Perfect for a cozy fall meal, it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Serve it with crusty bread and feta for a complete experience. You’ll love how simple yet flavorful this traditional dish is!
4
servings10
minutes50
minutes250
kcal1
hourKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Vegetables
1 pound fresh green beans trimmed and halved
1 large onion finely chopped
2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
1 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
- Tomato Base
4 medium tomatoes chopped (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Herbs & Seasoning
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
- Liquids
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 cups water (plus more if needed)
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the potatoes start to turn golden brown, approximately 5-8 minutes.
- Mix in the chopped tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), tomato paste, sugar (if using), zucchini slices, and chopped mint. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Once cooked through and flavors melded together, serve the stew in bowls topped with crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Accompany with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Dutch Oven
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 10mg
FAQ- Greek Green Bean Stew
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the stew.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! The stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often develop and improve after a day or two. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Is this stew suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this stew. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I use a different herb instead of mint?
Yes, fresh parsley or dill can be used as alternatives to mint. Each herb will give a slightly different flavor profile but will still complement the dish well.
Can I add meat to this stew?
While the traditional recipe is vegetarian and vegan, you can add cooked chicken or beef if you prefer. Simply add the meat during the final simmering stage to ensure it heats through and absorbs the flavors.
