Arabic baked beans with tomato and cheddar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
• Stir in the garlic, cumin, coriander, and chili flakes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base

• Add the tomato paste and cook it down for 1 minute to intensify its flavor.
• Pour in the diced or crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Beans

• Stir in the drained beans and a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce.
• Let simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Bake with Cheese

• Preheat your oven’s broiler (or set to 400°F/200°C if using a regular bake).
• Transfer the bean mixture to a small baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar.
• Bake or broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
• Serve warm with pita bread, crusty toast, or over rice.

Serving Tips

• Perfect for Brunch: Serve alongside fried eggs or a fresh cucumber salad for a Middle Eastern-inspired spread.
• For Meal Prep: Make a double batch and store in airtight containers—great for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Bread Pairings: Goes beautifully with warm pita, sourdough, or garlic naan.

Optional Variations

• Make It Vegan: Use plant-based cheddar or nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish without dairy.
• Spice It Up: Add a spoonful of harissa or a chopped green chili for extra heat.
• Protein Boost: Mix in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a heartier texture.
• Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the final simmer for added nutrition.
• No Oven? Just melt the cheese right on the stovetop with the lid on the pan.

Final Thoughts

These Arabic Baked Beans with Tomato and Cheddar are comfort food with character—warm, satisfying, and infused with bold spices that wake up the palate. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a vegetarian dinner, or a new twist on baked beans, this dish checks every box.

Plus, it’s quick, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. In a world of fast food and bland convenience meals, this is the kind of dish that proves real food doesn’t have to be complicated to be deeply delicious.