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Besarah
Besarah is a velvety Egyptian dip that captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. Originating from the heart of Egypt, this dish is made from dried fava beans, which are transformed into a creamy spread that bursts with the fresh flavors of herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill. The aromatic spices such as cumin and coriander lend warmth and depth, while a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish. Often enjoyed with warm, fluffy pita bread, Besarah is not just a staple at family gatherings; it evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort that transcends generations. Perfect for sharing with friends or as a hearty snack, this dip is sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- Dried fava beans
- 1 cup
- Vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Onion
- 1, chopped
- Garlic
- 4 cloves, minced
- Fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup, chopped
- Fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup, chopped
- Fresh dill
- 1/4 cup, chopped
- Cumin
- 1 teaspoon
- Coriander
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons
- Water
- 4 cups
Instructions
- Soak the dried fava beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse well before use.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the soaked fava beans to the pot along with the chopped cilantro, parsley, dill, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour in 4 cups of water, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the fava beans are tender.
- Once cooked, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth, achieving a creamy consistency.
- Stir in the lemon juice and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot with warm pita bread or over a bed of rice, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
- Besarah also makes a fantastic filling for wraps or sandwiches, paired with grilled vegetables or falafel.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Dietary Information
Servings: 6 Dish Type: Appetizer/Dip Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time) Cook Time: 1 hour Calories: 250 Fat: 8g Carbs: 40g Protein: 12g Sodium: 300mg Sugar: 1g
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