Moroccan Comfort in a Bowl: Cannellini Beans in Spiced Tomato Sauce

A hearty, healthy dish inspired by Moroccan street food and home kitchens—ready in just 30 minutes!

A Simple, Soulful Dish Found All Over Morocco

If there’s one comforting dish you’ll come across everywhere in Morocco—from bustling souks to humble cafés and home kitchens—it’s a bowl of warm, spiced white beans. This dish is simple, filling, and incredibly satisfying, made with pantry staples and lifted by the magic of ras el hanout, Morocco’s signature spice blend.

Traditionally made with dried white beans, I love using cannellini beans for their soft, creamy texture and mild flavor. This shortcut version is perfect for busy weeknights without compromising authenticity or taste.

Moroccan Cannellini Beans with Ras el Hanout

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

🛒 Ingredients:

• ¼ cup canola oil or light olive oil

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 4 garlic cloves, crushed or finely chopped

• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes

• ½ tbsp ras el hanout spice mix (or store-bought)

• ¼ tsp dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• ½ tsp salt (or more to taste)

• 2 cups water

• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• ½ tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• Juice of ¼ lemon (or more to taste)

🔥 Preparation: :

✅️ Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic. Stir for 2–3 minutes until they soften and begin to smell fragrant.

✅️ Build the Flavor:

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, ras el hanout, thyme, and salt. Let everything cook for 3–4 minutes so the spices can bloom and the tomatoes begin to caramelize slightly.

✅️ Add the Beans:

Pour in the water and add the rinsed cannellini beans. Stir gently and bring to a simmer. Let it bubble away gently for 10 minutes.

✅️ Finish with Herbs and Brightness:

Add the parsley, cilantro, and a pinch of sugar. Simmer for another 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

✅️ Serve:

Serve hot, preferably with some toasted bread, flatbread, or even over couscous. It’s a humble yet hearty dish you’ll come back to often.

💡 Chef’s Notes & Tips:

✔️For a thicker stew: Let the beans simmer uncovered a little longer to reduce the liquid.

✔️Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of harissa paste.

✔️Meal prep-friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This Moroccan-style bean stew is one of those simple recipes that truly hit the spot. Earthy, fragrant, and soul-warming—whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a meatless dinner, it brings the taste of Morocco right to your table.