Spiced Fava Bean Dip (Foul Medames)
Foul Medames is a classic Arabic breakfast dish celebrated for its rich, hearty flavors. This delicious fava bean dish is traditionally served warm, accompanied by fresh pita bread, za'atar, lebneh, and a selection of green olives. The savory elements of mashed garlic and optional jalapeño provide an enticing kick, making it a perfect start to your day. Bright lemon juice and creamy tahini blend beautifully into the mash, creating a smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with the accompaniments. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this dish offers a delightful and nutritious morning option, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fava beans
1 (15 ounce) can (drained and rinsed)
Garlic cloves
3 (chopped)
Tahini
2-3 tablespoons (none)
Lemon
1 (juiced)
Water
as needed (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Olive oil
to drizzle (none)
Fresh parsley
1 tablespoon (chopped (optional))
Jalapeno
1-2 teaspoons (chopped (optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by draining the fava beans and rinsing them under cool water. Place them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding just enough water to cover the beans. Bring to a gentle boil, allowing them to simmer for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
2
While the beans are boiling, prepare the flavor base by mashing the chopped garlic and optional jalapeno together in a bowl using a fork or mortar and pestle until they form a fine paste.
3
Once the fava beans are boiled, drain them, then add the beans to the garlic-jalapeno mixture. Mash the beans thoroughly until you achieve a thick, creamy consistency.
4
Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and add the tahini, mixing well until all ingredients are combined smoothly. Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency of the dip.
5
Season with salt to taste. If using, gently fold in the chopped parsley or reserve it for garnishing the top of the dish.
6
Transfer the foul mixture to a serving plate, making a slight well in the center. Drizzle with olive oil before serving. Pair the spiced fava bean dip with warm pita bread and enjoy your traditional Arabic breakfast!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Foul Medames?
Foul Medames is a classic Arabic breakfast dish made from mashed fava beans, traditionally served warm with olive oil and spices.
What are the main ingredients in this fava bean dip?
The main ingredients include canned fava beans, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, water, salt, and olive oil, with optional parsley and jalapeno.
Is this Spiced Fava Bean Dip vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients like beans, tahini, and olive oil.
How long should I simmer the fava beans?
The beans should be simmered in water for approximately 5 to 10 minutes until they are thoroughly warmed through.
What is the best way to mash the garlic and jalapeno?
You can use a fork or a mortar and pestle to mash the chopped garlic and optional jalapeno into a fine paste.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of chopped jalapeno to the garlic paste to give the dip an enticing kick.
How do I achieve the desired consistency for the dip?
After mixing in the tahini and lemon juice, gradually add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your preferred smoothness.
What should I serve with Foul Medames?
It is traditionally served with fresh pita bread, za'atar, lebneh, and a selection of green olives.
Do I need to peel the fava beans for this recipe?
The recipe instructions do not require peeling; simply drain and rinse the canned beans before boiling and mashing.
What type of oil is recommended for garnishing?
The recipe recommends drizzling the finished dish with extra virgin olive oil.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
Is the parsley mandatory in this recipe?
No, the fresh parsley is optional and can be either folded into the mixture or used as a garnish.
Can I use a food processor to mash the beans?
While the recipe suggests mashing with a fork or mortar and pestle for texture, a food processor can be used for a smoother finish.
What flavor does tahini add to the dip?
Tahini adds a creamy texture and a rich, nutty undertone that balances the acidity of the lemon.
Is Foul Medames considered a healthy breakfast?
Yes, it is a nutritious option that is high in fiber and protein from the fava beans.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 chopped garlic cloves.
Should I serve the dip hot or cold?
Foul Medames is traditionally served warm.
Can I adjust the salt level?
Yes, salt should be added to taste during the final mixing stage.
What size can of fava beans is needed?
You will need one 15-ounce can of fava beans.
What gives the dip its bright, tangy flavor?
The juice from one fresh lemon provides the characteristic brightness and acidity.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and can be prepared in a short amount of time using canned beans.
What is the texture of the garlic-jalapeno base?
It should be mashed until it forms a fine, consistent paste.
Can I skip the jalapeno if I don't like spice?
Yes, the jalapeno is optional and can be omitted for a milder version of the dish.
Where does Foul Medames originate from?
It is a traditional dish from Arabic and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used as a substitute.
What is the purpose of the well made in the center of the dip?
The well is created to hold the olive oil drizzle, which adds richness to every bite.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, but it is traditionally served with pita bread which contains gluten.
How much tahini should I add?
The recipe suggests using 2-3 tablespoons of tahini.
What is the best way to clean the beans?
Drain the canned beans and rinse them thoroughly under cool running water before cooking.
Can I garnish with more than just parsley?
Yes, besides parsley and olive oil, you can serve it with za'atar or fresh vegetables like onions and radishes.