Red Beans

Red beans are dried legumes with a deep red skin and a soft, creamy texture once cooked. They are a pantry staple in many kitchens and are usually soaked overnight, then simmered until tender. In Lebanese homes they are often cooked into fasolia stews with tomato and garlic, served alongside rice, and they also work well in soups, salads and chili-style dishes. Cooked beans can be mashed into spreads or added to grain bowls for a filling meal. At Dekenet Al Nes in Baaqline, in the Chouf, red beans are sold loose by the kilo. As a package-free grocery store, the shop encourages customers to bring their own jars, bags or containers and refill what they need, helping to cut plastic waste and single-use packaging.