Description
Ful Medames is a traditional Egyptian dish made from slow-simmered fava beans seasoned with garlic, lemon, and cumin, served warm and topped with a fresh tomato, cucumber, and parsley salad. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for breakfast or any meal and showcases the rich, comforting flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ingredients
Beans and Seasoning
- 2 cups dried fava beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salad Topping
- 1 medium fresh tomato, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: In a large pot, combine the soaked and drained fava beans with enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer Until Tender: Skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cook the beans uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they become tender and soft.
- Season the Beans: Drain excess water if necessary. Stir in olive oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and ground cumin into the cooked beans.
- Continue Cooking and Mash: Simmer the mixture for another 10 minutes, then use a wooden spoon to mash a portion of the beans to create a textured blend of whole and mashed beans.
- Add Lemon Juice: Drizzle the lemon juice over the beans and stir well. Taste and adjust salt if needed for flavor balance.
- Prepare the Salad: In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomato, cucumber, red onion, and chopped parsley to create a fresh, crisp salad topping.
- Serve: Spoon the warm fava bean mixture into serving bowls and top each portion with the fresh tomato and cucumber salad. Serve alongside pita bread or your choice of flatbread.
Notes
- Soaking the fava beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- If short on time, canned fava beans can be used but adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Adjust lemon juice and cumin quantities to suit your personal taste.
- Serve with warm pita bread for a traditional experience.
- This dish is traditionally enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.
