A hearty and comforting tomato-based beef stew simmered with sweet peas and tender carrots, seasoned with warm spices. Traditionally served over fluffy white rice, it’s a staple of home-style Middle Eastern cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Middle Eastern beef stew, known as Bazella, is a wholesome and warming dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its tender beef, sweet vegetables, and rich tomato broth, it offers a depth of flavor that feels both comforting and satisfying. Served over rice, it transforms into a complete, nourishing meal that’s ideal for any season.

ingredients

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

1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup carrots, diced
1.5 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cups water or beef broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked basmati rice, for serving

directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, allspice, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
Return beef to the pot. Add water or beef broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–60 minutes or until beef is tender.
Add carrots and cook for 10 minutes. Add peas and cook for an additional 10 minutes until vegetables are soft.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot over basmati rice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 to 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Lamb variation: Substitute beef with lamb cubes for a deeper, more traditional flavor.
Spice level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sliced chili for a spicier stew.
Vegetarian option: Replace meat with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Herbs: Add a bay leaf or a dash of dried mint during simmering for added aroma.
Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as a stew without rice.

storage/reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the meat and sauté aromatics beforehand, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours.

What cut of beef works best?

Chuck roast or stew meat with some marbling works best for tenderness and flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen peas and carrots work perfectly. Add them directly without thawing.

Is it okay to use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned crushed tomatoes are ideal and save time while maintaining flavor.

How do I thicken the stew?

Simmer uncovered near the end of cooking to reduce the liquid. You can also mash a few vegetables for a thicker consistency.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes, add diced potatoes with the carrots for a heartier version. Be sure to adjust cooking time as needed.

What type of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice such as basmati complements this dish best, but jasmine or brown rice also work well.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check store-bought broth or tomato paste for additives.

How do I make it more flavorful?

Use beef broth instead of water and let the stew simmer slowly to enhance the depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Beef Stew with Peas & Carrots (Bazella) is a soulful and nourishing meal that’s perfect for both everyday dining and special family dinners. With its blend of spices, rich tomato base, and tender meat, this dish is a testament to the comforting nature of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. Serve it over rice and enjoy the warmth of home-cooked flavor in every bite.