Turkish Braised Green Beans Tomatoes Recipe

Picture this: I’m sprawled on the couch, scrolling through my phone, when a craving hits—a craving for something fresh, tangy, and impossibly satisfying. That’s when I remember this Mediterranean-inspired green bean dish that’s lush with ripe tomatoes, a burst of lemon, and the subtle warmth of garlic. It’s one of those dishes that surprises me every time with how easy it is to whip up, yet it tastes like you’ve pampered yourself with something truly special. Ready to dive into this flavor-packed experience with me?

Simple, wholesome dishes that spotlight fresh produce are what I love to make. One of my all-time favorites in that category is Turkish Braised Green Beans with Tomatoes.

This dish is just melts-in-the-mouth tender, juicy, and full of flavor; bright against the backdrop of sweet onion and mellow garlic. The balance of flavor and nutrition in this dish has only one drawback: it’s so good you’ll want to keep it rotating in your regular meal lineup.

Ingredients

• Green Beans: Rich in fiber and vitamins, aid digestion.
• Onions: Contain antioxidants, enhance flavor depth.
• Garlic: Boosts immunity, adds aromatic pungency.
• Tomatoes: Packed with vitamin C, lend tangy sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Source of healthy fats, elevates richness.
• Sugar: Balances acidity, enhances taste palatability.
• Lemon Juice: Adds freshness, brightens the dish.

Ingredient Quantities

• 500 grams green beans, trimmed and halved
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced
• 50 ml olive oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 150 ml water
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped (optional)

How to Make this

1. Warm olive oil in a big saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion and cook until it is soft and see-through.

2. In a pan, add oil and heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add minced garlic and stir. Cook the garlic for about a minute. You want to cook it just until it’s fragrant and starting to turn golden, so keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.

3. Combine the paste of the tomato with the mixture of the onion and garlic and stir well.

4. In the pot, combine the chopped tomatoes and the other ingredients. Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer, letting the tomatoes reduce a little.

6. Introduce the green beans, cut and ready, into the pot, incorporating them with the tomato mixture.

7. Add the water, making sure it just covers the green beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

8. Lower the temperature to low, cover the pot, and allow the green beans to cook at a gentle simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until they are tender.

9. After cooking the beans, mix in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.

10. Present the plate with the dish warm or at room temperature; garnish it with dill, if using.

Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan
2. Medium pan
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Wooden spoon
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cup
8. Citrus juicer or reamer (optional)
9. Stirring spoon
10. Ladle (for serving)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones? A: Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable, but fresh tomatoes are preferred for the best flavor.
• Q: Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes? A: Peeling the tomatoes helps create a smoother texture for the sauce, but it’s optional if you prefer to keep the skins on.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Carrots or potatoes can be a great addition for added flavor and texture.
• Q: How long does it take to cook the green beans? A: It takes about 25-30 minutes to braise the green beans to a tender, flavorful consistency.
• Q: What can I use instead of fresh dill? A: If fresh dill is unavailable, you can substitute it with dried dill or omit it entirely. Parsley can also be a good alternative.
• Q: Do I need to use the lemon juice? A: The lemon juice adds brightness to the dish, but you can adjust the amount or omit if you prefer a less tangy flavor.
• Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Turkish Braised Green Beans Tomatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Use sunflower oil or vegetable oil instead of olive oil.
Canned diced tomatoes (drained) can take the place of ripe tomatoes.
Equal amount of pureed roasted red peppers can replace tomato paste.
If fresh dill is not available, substitute dried dill or parsley.
You can substitute lemon juice with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance Flavor with Caramelized Onions Cook the onions over low heat for a longer period to caramelize them. This will deepen the flavor of the dish and add a slight sweetness that complements the tomatoes and green beans.

2. Peeling Tomatoes Made Easy To peel the tomatoes efficiently, score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. This will make the skins slide off effortlessly.

3. Precision in Consistency When adding the water, ensure it just barely covers the green beans. This prevents the dish from becoming too watery and helps concentrate the flavors during cooking.

4. Balance the Acidity If you find the dish too acidic due to the tomatoes, consider adding a pinch more sugar. This will balance the acidity without taking over the flavor profile.

5. Fresh Herbs for Extra Freshness If using dill, add half during cooking to infuse flavor, and use the rest for garnish right before serving. This will provide both a cooked herb taste and a fresh, aromatic finish.