For a while now, many of you have expressed a desire for more Instant Pot (or pressure cooker) recipes, and I’ve been diligently working to bring you just that! Today, I am thrilled to share one of my latest culinary creations: Instant Pot Lebanese Green Beans, also known as Lubee. This dish holds a special place in my heart, rooted deeply in the flavors I grew up with.

My traditional Lebanese Green Beans recipe is a long-standing favorite, and adapting it for the Instant Pot was a natural progression. I knew it would be incredibly straightforward and efficient. Given how much you all enjoy both my classic Lebanese Green Beans and the hearty Lebanese Beef and Green Beans, I’m delighted to offer this convenient Instant Pot version, making this beloved Middle Eastern comfort food accessible to even more homes.

Lebanese Green Beans is a staple in my kitchen, a dish I frequently prepare for my family. Its simple yet profound flavors make it a versatile accompaniment to a wide array of meals. It’s not just food; it’s a taste of home and tradition.

This delightful side pairs wonderfully with numerous Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Consider serving it alongside a vibrant Roasted Vegetable Recipe, creamy hummus and warm pita bread, a refreshing Easy Lebanese Salad, savory Lebanese Meat Pies, or delicate stuffed grape leaves. Its robust flavor profile also makes it an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or rice pilafs.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Lubee

This Instant Pot version of Lubee isn’t just about convenience; it’s about maximizing flavor and nutrient retention while drastically cutting down on cooking time. The pressure cooker creates an environment where the spices deeply infuse into the green beans and tomatoes, resulting in a more intense and cohesive flavor profile. Plus, it’s virtually hands-off, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal prep.

Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Lebanese Green Beans

Crafting this flavorful Lebanese Green Bean dish requires just a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delicious side. For exact measurements and detailed printable instructions, be sure to check out the full recipe card below.

• Green Beans: The star of this show! While fresh green beans are always an option, I personally find that a bag of frozen green beans works exceptionally well here. The natural water released by frozen green beans contributes to the rich, flavorful sauce, helping all the spices and tomato juices meld together beautifully. If using fresh, you might need to add a splash of water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are crucial for creating the luscious, slightly tangy base of our green bean side dish. They break down during cooking, forming a rustic, comforting sauce that coats every bean. Using diced tomatoes (rather than crushed or pureed) adds a nice texture to the finished dish.
• Tomato Sauce: In addition to diced tomatoes, we also incorporate tomato sauce to enhance the depth of flavor and ensure a perfect saucy consistency. This combination creates a rich, tomato-forward profile that is characteristic of authentic Lubee.
• Aromatics (Garlic & Onion): Minced garlic cloves and thinly sliced or chopped onion lay the foundational flavors for this dish. They caramelize slightly and become incredibly fragrant, providing an essential aromatic backbone that elevates the entire recipe.
• Spices: This is where the magic truly happens, transforming simple green beans into an exotic delight. This recipe relies on two key warm spices:
  • Cumin: Adds an earthy, savory, and slightly nutty warmth that is quintessential to Middle Eastern cuisine.
  • Cinnamon: Provides a subtle sweetness and a deep, complex warmth that beautifully complements the savory notes of the tomatoes and cumin, creating that signature Lebanese flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste and adjust to your preference, as these can make all the difference in bringing out the full potential of the other ingredients.
• Fresh Parsley (for Garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.

How to Make Instant Pot Lebanese Green Beans: A Simple Guide

Making this authentic Lebanese side dish in your Instant Pot couldn’t be simpler. Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious and hassle-free meal.

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Begin by adding all your prepared ingredients – green beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, minced garlic, chopped onion, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper – into the inner pot of your Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Give everything a thorough stir to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed and the green beans are coated in the aromatic tomato mixture.

Step 2: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Secure the lid onto your Instant Pot, making sure the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time for 5 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins. Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep.

Step 3: Quick Release and Seasoning Adjustment
After the 5-minute cooking time, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the sealing valve to the “Venting” position. Always exercise caution when releasing steam. Once all the steam has been released and the float valve has dropped, it’s safe to open the lid. Give the green beans another good stir and taste. This is your opportunity to adjust the seasonings. You can add more salt, pepper, cumin, or cinnamon according to your preference. Remember, flavors can be intensified with a little extra seasoning!

Pro Tip for Tenderness: If you find that your green beans are not as tender as you’d like after the initial cooking, simply place the lid back on the Instant Pot (no need to seal or cook again) and let them sit for an additional 5-10 minutes. The residual heat within the pot will continue to gently cook the beans, making them perfectly tender without overcooking. This method ensures you achieve your desired texture every time.

Finally, garnish your Instant Pot Lebanese Green Beans generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve this delightful side dish warm alongside fluffy pita bread, creamy hummus, and your chosen main course for a complete and satisfying meal.