Loubia

Ingredients

• 400 g (14 oz)dried white beans, soaked
• 3tomatoes, grated
• 1onion
• 4garlic cloves
• 1 tspcumin
• 1 tsppaprika
• 1 tspturmeric
• 3 tbspolive oil
• 1 1/2 tspsalt
• 1 handfulcilantro, chopped

Method

1. Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic cloves. In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Grate the tomatoes directly into the pot, being careful to catch all the juices. Add 1 teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir the mixture well and continue to cook until it thickens slightly and the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture. This should take about 10 minutes, and you'll notice a rich, aromatic smell.
3. Drain the soaked white beans and add them to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Stir everything together, ensuring the beans are submerged, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Allow the beans to cook for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The beans should become tender and the sauce creamy, with the beans absorbing the flavors of the spices and tomatoes.
5. When the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt to the pot. Stir in a handful of chopped cilantro for freshness and a final burst of flavor. Drizzle a last pour of olive oil over the top to enrich the dish.
6. Serve the Loubia hot, accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. The beans should be soft and well-coated in the thick, spiced tomato sauce, making them the perfect comforting meal.