Fasolia, or Ethiopian-style green beans, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia. This simple yet satisfying recipe brings the bold tastes of berbere spice and the comforting warmth of onions and garlic to your table. Unlike many Western preparations, fasolia emphasizes the natural sweetness of the green beans, allowing the spices to dance alongside rather than overpower them. It's a perfect side dish, equally at home alongside hearty stews or served alongside injera for a complete meal.
This recipe prioritizes fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve the best possible flavor. We'll guide you through each step, from prepping the vegetables to achieving the perfect balance of spices. Ready to experience the magic of Ethiopian cuisine? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan or pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- Onion
- Corn oil (or vegetable, canola): 3/4 cup
- Crushed tomatoes
- Parsley
- Garlic
- Jalapeno peppers (optional)
- Carrots
- Green beans (frozen): 2 pounds
- Red pepper powder (optional)
- Butter: 1 tsp
- Salt
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Water: 1/2 cup (optional, for frozen beans)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Onions and Tomatoes
- Start by sauteing the sliced onion until golden and slightly firm (not mushy).
- Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2. Add Vegetables and Simmer
- Add carrots and cook for 5 minutes on medium heat after mixing.
- Add green beans (if using fresh, add water as needed). Stir and cover.
- Cook until green beans are darker and limp (about 10 minutes). Add water if needed to prevent dryness.
Step 3. Season and Adjust Consistency
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional jalapenos or red pepper powder.
- Cook until desired consistency is reached; for injera, cook longer for softer texture.
Read more: Ethiopian Tofu Stir-Fry: A Flavorful & Vegan Recipe
Tips
- Use medium-high heat initially, then reduce to medium once carrots are added.
- If using fresh green beans, you might need to add water.
- Choose between jalapenos, red pepper powder, or crushed peppers; don't use all at once.
- For injera, cook until very soft.
- Freshly chopped parsley and ginger can be substituted for ginger-garlic paste.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 40g
- Carbs: 60g
- Protein: 15g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the pot. They might need a slightly shorter cooking time.
2. What if I don't have berbere spice? Can I substitute?
While berbere is key to the authentic flavor, you can substitute with a blend of paprika, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of turmeric. Adjust the amounts to your spice preference.
Enjoy your delicious and authentic Ethiopian-style green beans! This simple recipe is a perfect way to add a vibrant and flavorful side dish to your next meal. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this taste of Ethiopian cuisine.