Slow-Cooked Beef with White Beans

  

Loubia is a comforting North African stew, perfect for cooler days. This hearty dish combines tender white beans, slow-cooked beef, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce infused with warm spices.

👉Ingredients:

◾️500 g (about 1 lb) beef (chuck, shank, or neck), cut into chunks

◾️250 g (about 1½ cups) dried white beans, soaked overnight (or canned, drained)

◾️2 medium onions, finely chopped

◾️3 garlic cloves, minced

◾️400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes (or 3 fresh tomatoes, grated)

◾️2 tbsp tomato paste

◾️4 tbsp olive oil

◾️1 tsp sweet paprika

◾️½ tsp mild chili powder (adjust to taste)

◾️1 tsp ground cumin

◾️1 tsp ground coriander

◾️½ tsp black pepper

◾️Salt, to taste

◾️1 bay leaf

◾️1 liter (about 4 cups) water or beef broth

◾️Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

👉Instructions:

1️⃣ Prepare the Beans:

If using dried beans, drain after soaking and rinse. Boil in water for 30 minutes, then drain. If using canned beans, rinse and set aside.

2️⃣ Brown the Beef:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef pieces on all sides, then remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

4️⃣ Add Spices and Tomatoes:

Stir in the paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and chili powder. Mix well, then add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Let simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5️⃣ Combine Everything:

Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the partially cooked (or canned) beans. Pour in enough water or broth to cover. Add the bay leaf.

6️⃣ Slow Cook:

Cover and simmer on low heat for 1½ to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the beans are fully cooked. Stir occasionally and add water as needed to keep a thick sauce.

7️⃣ Final Seasoning:

Taste and adjust the salt and spices as desired. Discard the bay leaf.

8️⃣ To Serve:

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with fresh bread, couscous, or rice.

◾️Prep Time: 15 minutes

◾️Cook Time: 2 hours

◾️Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes