Trim beans & cut into 3 pieces, wash & drain. Put onion & tomato into a heavy pan. Sprinkle with salt & rub in lightly with fingers. Stir in the beans, olive oil & sugar, mix well. Cover & cook for 15 minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally. The beans will lose their colour & soften. When all the moisture has been absorbed, stir-fry the beans for 2 to 3 minutes. Add 1/2 cup water, cover & simmer for 40 to 50 minutes, till the beans are tender. Add more water if necessary, 1/2 cup at a time. When cooked, the dish should be very moist but not watery. Serve cold as part of a buffet. Ayla Esen Algar, "The Complete Book of Turkish Cooking"