Cilantro-Infused Fava Beans with Crispy Bacon
Experience the delightful combination of tender fava beans and crispy bacon, beautifully enhanced by the fresh brightness of cilantro. This dish, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Portugal, serves as a hearty side or a light main course. The savory broth elevates the beans, turning them into a deliciously creamy yet nutritious dish that pairs well with grilled meats or crusty bread. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bacon
4 slices (Chopped)
Onion
1 medium (Chopped)
Fava Beans or Lima Beans
2 lbs (Fresh or canned, drained)
Chicken Broth
1 cup (Low-sodium preferred)
Salt
To taste
Pepper
To taste
Cilantro
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
2
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
3
Stir in the fava beans (or Lima beans) and pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the beans are submerged. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4
After 20 minutes, check the beans for tenderness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix in the chopped cilantro and the reserved crispy bacon.
5
Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cilantro-Infused Fava Beans with Crispy Bacon?
It is a Portuguese-inspired dish featuring tender fava beans and crispy bacon, enhanced by the fresh brightness of cilantro.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients are bacon, onion, fava beans or Lima beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro.
Can I substitute fava beans with something else?
Yes, you can use 2 pounds of fresh or canned Lima beans as an alternative to fava beans.
How long does it take to cook the bacon?
The chopped bacon should be cooked over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes crispy.
What should I do with the bacon fat after cooking?
You should leave the rendered bacon fat in the skillet to sauté the onions.
How long do I need to sauté the onion?
The chopped onion should be sautéed in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
How much chicken broth is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of chicken broth, preferably low-sodium.
What is the simmering time for the beans?
The beans should be simmered in the chicken broth for 20 minutes on low heat.
Should the skillet be covered while simmering?
Yes, you should cover the skillet while the beans are simmering.
When do I add the cilantro?
Mix in the chopped cilantro after the beans have finished simmering and are tender.
When do I add the bacon back into the dish?
The reserved crispy bacon is added back to the skillet at the very end along with the cilantro.
Is this recipe inspired by a specific region?
Yes, this dish is inspired by the vibrant and fresh flavors of Portugal.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it is versatile enough to serve as either a hearty side dish or a light main course.
What are some suggested pairings for this dish?
It pairs well with grilled meats or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How much cilantro is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro.
What is the texture of the final dish?
The dish is described as deliciously creamy and hearty.
Is there a specific way to prepare the fava beans?
The fava beans can be fresh or canned; if canned, they should be drained before use.
How much bacon is needed?
The recipe calls for 4 slices of chopped bacon.
What kind of onion is recommended?
The recipe suggests using one medium-sized chopped onion.
What heat setting should be used for simmering?
The skillet should be set to low heat for the simmering process.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 7 ingredients required for this dish.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve it warm, garnished with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
Can I use regular chicken broth?
Yes, but low-sodium chicken broth is preferred for better salt control.
How do I know when the beans are finished cooking?
Check the beans for tenderness after the 20-minute simmering period.
Should I stir the beans during simmering?
Yes, you should stir the ingredients occasionally while they are simmering.
Is this dish suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, it is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
What type of cookware is recommended?
A large skillet is the ideal cookware for this recipe.
Is this a Mediterranean dish?
Yes, it is categorized as a Mediterranean-style recipe.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The flavor profile combines savory bacon, earthy fava beans, and bright, fresh cilantro.
Do I need to add salt and pepper?
Yes, season with salt and pepper to taste near the end of cooking.