In a medium-sized pot, combine the fava beans, water, crushed garlic, cumin, salt, and chili flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook on low for about 10-15 minutes.
Egyptian Ful Medames (Stewed Fava Beans)
- Total time - 30 minutes
- Preparation - 15 minutes
- Cooking time - 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Country: Egypt
Ful Medames is a dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. Its foundation is slowly cooked fava beans, which give it a creamy texture. The perfect blend of garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil makes it one of the most delicious and nutritious breakfasts in the world. While traditionally made with dried beans soaked and cooked for a long time, a quicker version using canned beans is also excellent.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cans canned fava beans (broad beans), drained and rinsed
- 0.5 cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- chili flakes (optional)
- juice of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For serving
- fresh parsley, chopped
- tomatoes, finely chopped
- onions, finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the base
Step 2: Mash and season
Using a potato masher or a fork, gently mash a portion of the beans directly in the pot. Leave some pieces whole for texture. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Add a little more water if the mixture gets too thick.
Step 3: Serve
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well and transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve warm with chopped tomatoes and onions, ideally with bread for dipping.