In a large pot heat the oil on high heat. Add the onion and sauté until onion is translucent.
Cut the meat into 2 inch pieces and add to the pot. Seal the meat stirring it occasionally. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 30 minutes.
Trim the ends of the string beans and cut them in half (skip this stage if you use frozen beans). Add to the pot together with the pureed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, and the spices. Stir well.
Cover the pot and cook for an hour and a half.
Every once in a while, stir the contents of the pot and make sure the stew has some liquid to cook in (not a lot). Add a little water if needed, so the stew doesn’t get burned.
Serve over white rice or mashed potatoes, or just dip some good bread in the sauce and enjoy!