{"id":8416,"date":"2014-05-06T14:32:01","date_gmt":"2014-05-06T14:32:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hadiaslebanesecuisine.com\/blog\/?p=8416"},"modified":"2026-10-25T21:30:24","modified_gmt":"2026-10-25T21:30:24","slug":"stewed-zucchini-and-tomatoeskoussa-wbanadoura","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hadiaslebanesecuisine.com\/blog\/stewed-zucchini-and-tomatoeskoussa-wbanadoura\/","title":{"rendered":"Lebanese Stewed Zucchini and Tomatoes (Kousa w Banadoura)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Looking for an easy zucchini side dish made with just a few simple ingredients? In Lebanon, we prepare zucchini in many delicious ways, and this Lebanese stewed zucchini with tomatoes (Kousa w Banadoura)<\/strong> is one of the simplest. Tender zucchini is gently saut\u00e9ed and simmered with juicy tomatoes, allowing the fresh flavors of the vegetables to shine through. This quick and comforting Lebanese vegetable dish is perfect for busy days when you want something wholesome and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it warm or at room temperature with fresh pita bread for a simple, satisfying meal.<\/p>\n

Nostalgic Memories of Zucchini Harvests and Lebanese Home Cooking<\/h2>\n

My aunt and her husband owned a farm in South Lebanon, and during my teenage years, we would visit them during school holidays. Some of my fondest memories are of those visits, especially the simple pleasure of wandering through the garden to pick fresh zucchini straight from the vine. There was something truly enchanting about the experience: the farm\u2019s distinctive, earthy aroma, the excitement of discovering perfectly tender zucchini nestled beneath a lush canopy of leaves, and, above all, the joy of returning home with our freshly harvested bounty, eager to transform it into delicious Lebanese dishes. My aunt and mom would prepare koussa bil banadoura<\/em> (zucchini stewed with tomatoes), koussa mahshi<\/em> (stuffed zucchini)<\/strong><\/a>, koussa w bayd<\/em> (zucchini with eggs)<\/strong><\/a>, and so much more. It was, without a doubt, a day devoted entirely to zucchini\u2014a celebration of the land\u2019s generosity, the pleasures of home cooking, and the cherished food memories that have stayed with me over the years.<\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions: Lebanese Stewed Zucchini & Tomatoes<\/h2>\n

Can I use regular green zucchini instead of Lebanese grey zucchini?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Yes. While authentic Lebanese grey zucchini (koussa<\/em>) has a slightly sweeter taste and firmer texture that holds up well during simmering, regular green zucchini or yellow squash will work perfectly as a substitute.<\/p>\n

Do I need to peel the tomatoes for this stew?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

No peeling is required! Simmering the diced tomatoes low and slow allows the skins to soften completely, melting them into a rich, rustic sauce. However, if you prefer a perfectly smooth sauce, you may peel them before dicing.<\/p>\n

Can I make this dish ahead of time?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

<\/strong>Absolutely. This stew tastes even better the next day as the zucchini continues to absorb the rich flavors of the onions, and tomato juices. It stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.<\/p>\n

How should I serve Lebanese Stewed Zucchini?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

This dish is traditionally served warm or at room temperature with plenty of fresh pita bread for scooping. It also makes an excellent side dish alongside grilled meats, vermicelli rice, or a crisp green salad.<\/p>\n

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Can I add garlic to Koussa w Banadoura?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

<\/strong>Yes, garlic makes a wonderful addition! While this minimalist version relies on the sweetness of the red onions, you can easily saut\u00e9 3 to 4 minced garlic cloves right along with the onions to add a deeper, savory aroma to the tomato sauce.<\/p>\n

Can I use olive oil instead of canola oil?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

<\/strong>Absolutely. Olive oil is highly traditional in Lebanese cooking. If you prefer its distinct flavor, you can substitute the canola oil entirely or finish the stew with a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving to elevate the dish.<\/p>\n

More Authentic Lebanese Zucchini Recipes to Try<\/h2>\n