Loubia- Morrocan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot)

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms your heart and nourishes your body, look no further than Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot). This delightful dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this stew makes a perfect centerpiece. The combination of spices and wholesome ingredients creates a dish that feels special yet feels like home.

What I love most about this Moroccan Bean Stew is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for any occasion where you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, dinner is served before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This stew tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Simple, fresh ingredients ensure you’re feeding your loved ones something good.
• Flexible Cooking Options: Whether you prefer the stovetop or an Instant Pot, this recipe accommodates both methods seamlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store to create this hearty stew.

For the Stew Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
• 4 ripe tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika powder (optional)
• ⅓ tsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Dash of salt & black pepper

For the Beans

• 1 can (15oz) canned white beans (Cannellini, Navy, Great Northern)
• 1 cup veggie broth
• ¾ cup dry white beans (Cannellini, Navy, Great Northern)
• 1 ½ – 2 cups veggie broth

Variations

What I love about this Loubia recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the flavors right before serving.
• Protein-Packed Option: Stir in some cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and texture.

How to Make Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until they turn translucent—this process brings out their natural sweetness. Next, add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Once your onions are ready, stir in the chopped tomatoes along with ground cumin, paprika powder, smoked paprika (if using), turmeric, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Allow everything to simmer together for a few minutes until it forms a rich sauce. This step is essential as it builds layers of flavor that make this stew irresistible!

Step 3: Incorporate the Beans

Now it’s time to bring in the star players—the beans! Add both canned white beans and dry white beans into your pot. Pour in one cup of veggie broth to help everything meld together. Stir gently so all those lovely flavors combine beautifully.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

For stovetop cooking, cover your pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 25 minutes. If you’re using an Instant Pot, seal the lid and cook on high pressure for around 10 minutes followed by a natural release. The goal here is to ensure those dry beans become tender while absorbing all those amazing spices.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

After cooking time is up, if your stew looks too thick, add more veggie broth until you reach your desired consistency. Give it a good stir and taste—adjust seasoning if needed!

And there you have it! A delicious bowl of Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew that will surely warm both body and soul. Enjoy every bite with your favorite crusty bread or over fluffy rice!

Pro Tips for Making Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot)

Making a delicious Loubia can be a breeze with the right tips! Here are some handy suggestions to ensure your stew is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your stew, making it taste bright and vibrant. Whenever possible, opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh garlic to boost the overall taste.

• Customize the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preferences. If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick!

• Soak your dry beans: If using dry white beans, soaking them overnight can reduce cooking time and improve their texture. This also makes them easier to digest, so it’s a win-win!

• Stir occasionally: Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, stirring occasionally ensures that nothing sticks to the bottom and helps blend all those lovely flavors together.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let your stew sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more harmonious dish.

How to Serve Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot)

Serving Loubia is as delightful as making it! This comforting stew can be presented in various ways to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy meal at home.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds brightness and freshness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the stew.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice enhances acidity and balances the hearty flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a spicy kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Couscous: Fluffy couscous serves as an excellent base for Loubia. It absorbs the stew’s delicious sauce while providing a light and airy contrast.
• Flatbread: Warm flatbreads are perfect for scooping up Loubia. They add a wonderful chewy texture that pairs well with the stew’s creamy beans.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings additional nutrients and flavors to your meal, creating a colorful plate that’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up your meal and offer a crisp contrast to the warm stew.

Enjoy crafting this Moroccan-inspired dish that not only delights your palate but also warms your heart!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moroccan Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious when enjoyed later. Here’s how to store your Loubia effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label with the date and name of the dish.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop: Heat on low-medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warm.
• For microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

Can I make Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot) without fresh tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can use canned diced tomatoes as an alternative. Just adjust the liquid amount accordingly.

How do I adjust the spice level in Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot)?

You can easily modify the spice level by adding more or less paprika or even incorporating chili powder for a kick. Taste as you go!

Can I use different types of beans for this recipe?

Yes! While Cannellini, Navy, and Great Northern beans work beautifully, feel free to experiment with other varieties you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew, whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or part of your meal prep routine. Its vibrant flavors and comforting nature make it a truly special dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices and veggies! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and joy!