**Fasolakia: A Culinary Journey Through Greece, Turkey, and Beyond**
Fasolakia, also known as green beans in tomato sauce, is a delightful Mediterranean dish that captures the essence of simplicity and bold flavors. This versatile dish is a staple in Greek and Turkish cuisine, but its popularity extends far beyond these borders, with variations found across the Balkans, the Middle East, and even parts of North Africa. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the diverse world of fasolakia, from classic recipes to modern interpretations. In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide detailed instructions for making traditional Greek fasolakia, Turkish-style green beans, and a unique Cypriot version with aromatic spices. We'll also share tips for selecting the freshest ingredients, achieving the perfect balance of flavors, and adding your own personal touch to this beloved dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, our recipes will guide you through the process of creating a delicious and satisfying fasolakia that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Athens, Istanbul, or Nicosia.
GREEK GREEN BEANS (FASOLAKIA)
These Greek Green Beans (Fasolakia) are velvety tender, served in a tomato and garlic based sauce with lemon, dill, and plenty of extra-virgin olive oil. It's a perfect Mediterranean, low carb, paleo, and vegan side dish.
Provided by Elizabeth Lindemann
Categories Sides
Time 45m
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large pot or dutch oven.
- Sauté the onion in the oil over medium-high heat until softened and starting to brown (about 5 minutes).
- Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the tomatoes and stir together. Continue to cook until they start to soften and break down (about 2 minutes).
- Add the green beans, water (1 cup), kosher salt (1/2 tablespoon), and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon). Stir just a bit to distribute the ingredients. Turn the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until green beans are tender to your liking. Stir occasionally to make sure the beans get equal times on the bottom and top of the pot.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, fresh dill, and remaining 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil. Season to taste and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 194 kcal, Carbohydrate 16 g, Protein 4 g, Fat 15 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sodium 889 mg, Fiber 5 g, Sugar 8 g, ServingSize 1 serving
FASOLAKIA (GREEK GREEN BEANS)
Fasolakia are Greek green beans stewed with olive oil and tomato, with a few pieces of potato added for good measure. This is a main dish in Greece, not a side dish, and a prime example of plant-based eating! Good crusty bread is essential for mopping up the sauce and I always need to have a healthy chunk of feta on the side. Serve fasolakia warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Provided by Diana Moutsopoulos
Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Greek
Time 50m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and stir in onion. Cook until onion has softened, about 5 minutes. Add green beans and stir to coat in the oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes. Add pureed tomato, potatoes, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well, then add water until beans are barely covered.
- Bring to a simmer, partially cover with a lid, and cook gently over medium-low heat until green beans and potatoes are soft, 25 to 30 minutes. Uncover towards the end of cooking to reduce sauce if it is too watery.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 289.4 calories, Carbohydrate 38.6 g, Fat 14.1 g, Fiber 10.3 g, Protein 6.8 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sodium 316.7 mg, Sugar 8.1 g
EASY FASOLAKIA
Greek-style green beans with tomatoes and potatoes cooked in olive oil. This dish may be served warm or cold. As a nice option, top with crumbled feta cheese.
Provided by Jimmy the Greek
Categories Side Dish Vegetables
Time 1h35m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook and stir onion until tender, about 10 minutes. Mix remaining olive oil, green beans, tomatoes, potato, mint, parsley, salt, and pepper into onion, adding enough water to cover the whole mixture. Bring liquid to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 1 hour.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 303.7 calories, Carbohydrate 28.2 g, Fat 19 g, Fiber 5.6 g, Protein 4.7 g, SaturatedFat 2.7 g, Sodium 838.9 mg, Sugar 6.1 g
Tips:
- Use fresh green beans: Fresh green beans have a crisp texture and a sweet flavor that is perfect for this dish.
- Trim the green beans properly: Trim the ends of the green beans, but leave the beans whole. This will help them cook evenly.
- Use a variety of tomatoes: This recipe calls for a combination of Roma tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. The Roma tomatoes provide a rich, flavorful sauce, while the cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness and color.
- Cook the tomatoes until they are soft: The tomatoes should be cooked until they are soft and juicy. This will help to create a flavorful sauce.
- Add the green beans to the pot: Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the green beans to the pot. Cook the green beans until they are tender, but still slightly crunchy.
- Season the dish to taste: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
- Serve the dish immediately: Fasolakia is best served immediately, while the green beans are still crisp and the sauce is hot.
Conclusion:
Fasolakia is a delicious and easy-to-make Greek dish that is perfect for a summer meal. The combination of fresh green beans, tomatoes, and herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give fasolakia a try!
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