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

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal, let me introduce you to my favorite Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot). This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or delightful family gatherings, this vegetarian stew is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re using your trusty stovetop or the Instant Pot, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in just 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings when time is of the essence.
• Flavorful and Wholesome: The blend of spices creates a warm, aromatic experience that makes this stew truly special.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the rich flavors and comforting texture of this dish—it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This stew stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
• Versatile Ingredients: Using canned and dried beans allows flexibility based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious stew. You likely already have most of these staples in your pantry!

For the 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

One of the best things about Loubia is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice It Up: If you like some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a wonderful kick.
• Switch Up the Beans: Use any type of white beans you have on hand—each variety brings its unique flavor while keeping it deliciously hearty.
• Load It Up: Top your stew with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness before serving.

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

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. This step is essential because it develops the base flavor for our stew. Then stir in the garlic until fragrant—your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Next up, toss in those vibrant chopped tomatoes along with cumin, paprika powder, smoked paprika (if using), turmeric, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows all those incredible flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate the Beans

Now it’s time to add your canned white beans along with one cup of veggie broth. If you’re using dry beans as well, ensure they are pre-soaked or cooked beforehand. Stir everything well to combine; this step ensures every bite has that lovely spice mix.

Step 4: Cook Your Stew

For stovetop cooking: Let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes until thickened. If you’re going for the Instant Pot method: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Both methods lead to that heartwarming result we all love!

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

Once done cooking, check if you need more broth depending on your preferred consistency. Stir in additional veggie broth as needed—this helps create that perfect stew texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Loubia hot! Pair it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve made something wonderful!

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

Creating the perfect Loubia is all about balance and enhancing those rich flavors. Here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious result every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes over canned ones if possible. Fresh tomatoes offer a vibrant flavor that elevates the overall taste of your stew.

• Adjust Spices to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices according to your preference. Adding more cumin or paprika can give the dish an extra layer of warmth and depth that you’ll love.

• Soak Your Beans: If using dry beans, soak them overnight! This will help them cook faster and make the stew creamier. No one likes a hard bean in their stew!

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into your stew. They not only add nutrition but also enhance the flavor profile of your dish.

• Let it Rest: Allowing your cooked Loubia to sit for a few minutes before serving can really help the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious.

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

Serving your Loubia is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully at your dining table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the stew.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous works wonderfully with Loubia. It absorbs all those delicious juices, making each bite satisfying.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the stew, adding a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies complements the stew’s rich flavors while providing additional nutrients.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the hearty stew.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delightful Moroccan experience right at home! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moroccan White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes better the next day as the flavors meld, but it also makes an easy, nutritious dish to have on hand during busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Loubia in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Allow the Loubia to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Loubia overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Add a splash of veggie broth if it seems too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Have some questions? Here are answers to common queries about this delicious dish!

Can I make Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot) ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better when made ahead of time. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

What types of beans can I use for Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew (Stovetop + Instant Pot)?

You can use canned white beans like Cannellini, Navy, or Great Northern beans. For dry beans, soak them beforehand and cook until tender before adding them to the stew.

Is there a way to make Loubia spicier?

Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili peppers when sautéing your onions and garlic for an extra kick!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Loubia?

Definitely! Feel free to swap out spices according to your taste preferences. You could also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

How can I serve Loubia?

Loubia is fantastic served over rice or with crusty bread. It also pairs well with a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Loubia- Moroccan White Bean Stew! It’s not just flavorful and satisfying; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or alongside other dishes, this stew will surely bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!