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Rustic Mashed Fava Beans (Greek Fava) – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Rustic Mashed Fava Beans (Greek Fava)

A rustic and incredibly satisfying Mashed Fava Beans recipe, also known as 'Fava' in Greece. This creamy, protein-packed purée is a comforting and light side dish, dip, or base for a vegetarian meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz (225 g) dried peeled and split fava beans, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil, for serving
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice, for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Water, for cooking
  • Pro-Tips for Perfect Mashed Favas
  • For a bright, fresh finish, stir in a combination of chopped fresh herbs like parsley and mint along with a pinch of lemon zest just before serving.
  • Create a richer, deeper flavor by sautéing the onion, carrot, and celery in a little olive oil before adding them to the simmering beans.
  • If you can't find dried fava beans, this recipe works beautifully with dried lima beans, gigantes, or cranberry beans; just adjust cooking times as needed.
  • For an ultra-creamy texture, blend the cooked bean mixture in a food processor, drizzling in olive oil as it runs.

Method
 

  1. Place the rinsed fava beans in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by at least 2 inches.
  2. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Reduce the heat to a steady simmer, cover the pot loosely, and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the beans begin to soften.
  4. Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the pot.
  5. Stir to combine.
  6. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the beans are very soft and falling apart.
  7. Add more water if the mixture becomes too dry.
  8. Drain the beans and vegetables, reserving a little of the cooking liquid.
  9. Mash the beans to your desired consistency using a potato masher or a wooden spoon. For a smoother texture, use a food mill or ricer.
  10. Add a splash of the reserved cooking liquid if needed to reach a creamy consistency.
  11. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper. To serve, transfer the mashed favas to a bowl and drizzle generously with the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 15gFat: 18g

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