Algerian Stew with White Beans Barboucha

Warm, hearty, and bursting with North African flavors, Algerian Stew with White Beans Barboucha is a comforting dish that brings tradition to your table. This slow-simmered vegan stew features tender white beans infused with a rich tomato base, aromatic spices like paprika and cumin, and a refreshing hint of dried mint. Nutritious carrots and celery add texture, while harissa provides an optional spicy kick for enthusiasts of bold flavors. Perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying, this one-pot wonder is ideal for cozy dinners and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or steamed rice. With simple prep and wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s an easy way to explore the vibrant flavors of Algerian cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams dried white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 200 grams crushed tomatoes
• 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
• 2 stalks celery stalks, chopped
• 1.5 liters water or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried mint
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon harissa (optional, for added spiciness)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried white beans and soak them in cold water overnight, or at least for 8 hours. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to allow the flavors to deepen.

Step 6

Add the crushed tomatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot, stirring to combine.

Step 7

Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 8

Add the soaked and drained white beans to the pot. Stir in the paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and harissa (if using).

Step 9

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more water or broth if needed to keep the beans submerged.

Step 10

Check the beans for tenderness after 1.5 hours. Continue cooking if they are not yet soft, adjusting seasoning as necessary.

Step 11

Once the beans are tender, stir in the dried mint to add a fragrant, earthy note to the stew.

Step 12

Ladle the stew into bowls, and garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2404.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1538.0

Total Fat 49.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 8513.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 220.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 54.1g	0%
Total Sugars 35.6g
Protein 69.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 672.7mg	0%
Iron 20.5mg	0%
Potassium 6849.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 27.8%

Protein: 17.4%

Carbs: 54.8%