A comforting Turkish classic featuring tender chunks of beef stewed with creamy white beans in a rich tomato-based sauce—served best with rice, yogurt, and crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kuru Fasulye is one of the most beloved dishes in Turkish cuisine, offering deep, hearty flavors that embody homestyle cooking at its best. This stew combines tender beef, creamy white beans, and a savory tomato base seasoned with paprika and aromatic vegetables. It’s nourishing, simple to prepare, and perfect for chilly days. Whether made with canned or dried beans, this stew promises warmth, flavor, and a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with rice and traditional accompaniments.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 cups dried white beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 lb beef chuck, diced into small cubes
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 cups water or beef broth
Optional: chili flakes for garnish

directions

If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and cook in fresh water for 45–60 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant.
Add the diced beef and cook for about 5–6 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
Stir in the chopped green bell pepper and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring to combine.
Season the mixture with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the water or beef broth, stir, and bring to a simmer.
Cover the pot and simmer gently for 40–50 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Add the cooked or canned white beans and stir to combine. Simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chili flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus soaking time for dried beans)
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian stew.
Spicy Version: Add chopped green chilies or extra chili flakes for a spicier flavor profile.
Different Meat Cuts: Substitute lamb or ground beef for a different texture and taste.
With Butter: Traditional recipes often include a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
With Tomato Sauce: Some variations use tomato sauce instead of tomato paste for a lighter consistency.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat until thoroughly heated, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

What type of white beans should I use?

Cannellini beans, navy beans, or Great Northern beans all work well in this recipe.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned beans are a convenient option. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before use.

Is this dish spicy?

It is mildly spiced with paprika. For more heat, add chili flakes or hot pepper.

Can I cook this stew in a pressure cooker?

Yes, using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce cooking time for both the beans and the beef.

What can I serve with Kuru Fasulye?

It is traditionally served with rice, yogurt, and crusty bread.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

How do I thicken the stew?

Let it simmer uncovered for longer or mash a few of the beans to naturally thicken the broth.

Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What cut of beef works best?

Beef chuck is ideal for stewing as it becomes tender with slow cooking.

How do I prevent the stew from becoming too salty?

If using canned beans or broth, reduce added salt and adjust at the end of cooking.

Conclusion

Turkish White Bean Stew with Beef (Kuru Fasulye) is a soul-warming, satisfying dish that captures the essence of traditional Turkish home cooking. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or preparing a larger batch for guests, this recipe is both hearty and versatile. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your cold-weather recipe collection.