Fava Bean and Smoked Paprika Soup

Ingredients

• Dried fava beans (1 cup, soaked overnight)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Vegetable broth (4 cups)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish))

Instructions

1. Rinse the dried fava beans thoroughly under cold water and soak them in water overnight. After soaking, drain the beans and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add the soaked fava beans to the pot along with the smoked paprika, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir everything together to combine well, ensuring the beans are coated with the spices.
4. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for approximately 30 minutes, or until the fava beans are tender and creamy.
5. Once the beans are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve your desired flavor.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.