Teresa's Recipes
Besara - Egyptian Fava Bean Dip
Besara is a traditional Egyptian dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors with its creamy texture and aromatic herbs. Often enjoyed as a dip or spread, this nutritious vegetarian delight is made from fava beans, fresh herbs, and spices that create a symphony of taste. Rich in protein and fiber, Besara is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to any meal. Historically, this dish has roots in Egyptian cuisine, often served during communal gatherings, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of the culture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Dried fava beans
- 4 cups (for cooking) Water
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon (or to taste) Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 medium, chopped Onion
- for drizzling (optional) Olive oil
- for garnish (optional) Paprika
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Appetizer/Main Course
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- Soak the dried fava beans in plenty of water overnight. This softens them and reduces cooking time. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the soaked fava beans, chopped cilantro, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow to simmer for 30 minutes or until the fava beans are tender.
- Using a blender or immersion blender, carefully puree the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less.
- Return the pureed mixture to the pot and simmer over low heat for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve hot, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy with rice, pita bread, or fresh vegetables.
Tips
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic.
- You can also serve Besara chilled as a refreshing dip during warmer months.