Loubia b'Dirsa, Algerian White Bean Stew

Loubia b'Dirsa: Algerian White Bean Stew Recipe | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Algeria | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4-6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Loubia b'Dirsa, Algerian White Bean Stew

Loubia b'Dirsa is a traditional Algerian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This white bean stew is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

History

Loubia b'Dirsa has been a staple in Algerian cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, as it is a symbol of hospitality and generosity. The combination of white beans, chickpeas, and a flavorful spice blend creates a dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

200 g of soaked overnight haricots blancs (white beans)
300 g of soaked overnight chickpeas
1 minced onion
250 g of ground lamb or beef
4 tbsp of tomato paste
2 minced cloves of garlic
2 concasse tomatoes
vinegar or lemon wedges
1-2 tsp of spice blend
salt and pepper
olive oil

Ingredients for dirsa

2-4 fresh or dried hot red chilis (if using dried, soak them in water until soft)
2 cloves of garlic
1 tbsp of salt
0.5 cup of olive oil

How to prepare

1) In a medium heat, sauté the onions in olive oil for about 10–15 minutes. Add tomato paste and continue sautéing for another 10 minutes. If you are adding meat to the dish, add it now. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for approximately 15 minutes.
2) Add the beans and enough water to cover them, plus an additional 2 cups. Season with salt and pepper, and add half of the required amount of spices. Cook on low heat for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. If the liquid reduces too much, add more water. Then, add the tomatoes and taste for seasoning. Adjust if necessary and add more spices if desired. Cook for an additional 30 minutes until the beans and chickpeas are soft and tender.
Method for dirsa:
1) Blend the garlic, peppers, and salt with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Slowly drizzle in olive oil until a light paste consistency is achieved.
Serve the bean stew with lemon wedges or a small bottle of vinegar, and the dirsa for diners to add at the table. This dish pairs well with bread, but can also be enjoyed with rice or bulgur couscous.
You can use only white beans instead of a blend of beans.

Variations

You can add additional vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the stew for added flavor and nutrients.
For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the beans and chickpeas.
You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top of the stew for a creamy and refreshing touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans and chickpeas overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures that they are tender and cooked through.

- Sautéing the onions and tomato paste before adding the beans and chickpeas helps to develop the flavors of the dish.

- Adjust the seasoning and spices to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less spice blend depending on your preference for heat.

- Serve the dish with lemon wedges or vinegar on the side for a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the stew.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Loubia b'Dirsa with crusty bread, rice, or bulgur couscous for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also enjoy this dish on its own or with a side salad for a lighter option.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Loubia b'Dirsa is to sauté the onions and tomato paste until they are caramelized and fragrant. This helps to develop the flavors of the dish and create a rich and flavorful base for the stew.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have white beans or chickpeas, you can use any type of beans or legumes that you have on hand.

- You can use ground beef, lamb, or chicken instead of beef in this recipe for a different flavor profile.

- If you don't have fresh chilis for the dirsa, you can use dried chilis or chili flakes for a similar heat level.

Make Ahead Tips

Loubia b'Dirsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as the stew sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Loubia b'Dirsa in a large serving bowl with lemon wedges or vinegar on the side for diners to add at the table. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, pickled vegetables, or a side of couscous or rice. You can also serve it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing mint tea for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Loubia b'Dirsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed to thin out the stew.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Loubia b'Dirsa contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. This dish is a satisfying and filling option for a nutritious meal.

Carbohydrates

The main sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the white beans, chickpeas, and tomatoes. These ingredients provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are important for energy production and overall health.

Fats

The olive oil used in this recipe provides healthy fats that are essential for brain function, hormone production, and overall health. The dirsa, made with olive oil, also adds a rich and flavorful element to the dish.

Proteins

The beef, white beans, and chickpeas in this dish are all excellent sources of protein. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair, as well as for overall health and wellbeing.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and garlic, as well as iron and zinc from the beef. These nutrients are important for immune function, energy production, and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and olive oil, which are common allergens for some individuals. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients and make substitutions as needed.

Summary

Loubia b'Dirsa is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and comforting option for a delicious meal.

Summary

Loubia b'Dirsa is a delicious and nutritious Algerian white bean stew that is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals, this dish is a healthy and flavorful option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy this hearty stew with crusty bread, rice, or couscous for a complete and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Loubia b'Dirsa, an Algerian White Bean Stew. It was many years ago, during my travels through North Africa, that I stumbled upon a small roadside cafe in Algiers. The smell of exotic spices and savory aromas filled the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

I sat down at a rickety wooden table, surrounded by locals who chatted animatedly in Arabic. The owner of the cafe, a kindly woman with weathered hands and a warm smile, approached me and offered me a steaming bowl of Loubia b'Dirsa. I took a hesitant bite, and my taste buds exploded with a symphony of flavors - the earthy taste of white beans, the tang of tomatoes, and the warmth of cinnamon and cumin. I was hooked.

I begged the owner for the recipe, but she refused to divulge her secret. Undeterred, I made it my mission to recreate this delicious stew in my own kitchen. Over the years, I collected bits and pieces of the recipe from various sources - a hint here, a suggestion there. I experimented with different combinations of spices and ingredients until I finally mastered the art of making Loubia b'Dirsa.

To me, cooking is more than just following a set of instructions. It's about creating something that nourishes both the body and the soul. Each dish tells a story, a tale of tradition and culture passed down through generations. And this recipe for Loubia b'Dirsa is no exception.

The key to a good Loubia b'Dirsa lies in the quality of the ingredients. I always start with dried white beans, soaking them overnight to ensure they cook up tender and creamy. I sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until they turn golden brown, then add a generous amount of tomato paste and diced tomatoes. The spices are what truly make this stew unique - a blend of cinnamon, cumin, paprika, and a touch of harissa for heat.

As the stew simmers on the stove, the flavors meld together to create a rich, aromatic broth that is both comforting and satisfying. I often serve it with a side of couscous or crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Whenever I make Loubia b'Dirsa, I am transported back to that small cafe in Algiers, surrounded by the sights and sounds of North Africa. I can almost hear the clinking of glasses and the chatter of the locals as they enjoy their meals. It's a reminder of the power of food to connect us to different cultures and traditions, to bridge the gap between strangers and friends.

And so, as I ladle steaming bowls of Loubia b'Dirsa for my family and friends, I share not just a meal, but a piece of my own culinary journey. Each spoonful is a taste of love, of memories, of the countless hours spent in my kitchen perfecting this recipe. And I hope that with each bite, they too can experience the sense of anticipation and wonder that I felt all those years ago.