Egyptian Spiced Fava Bean Dip (Besara)

Ingredients

• 1 cup Dried fava beans
• 6 cups Water
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup Fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup Green bell pepper
• 1 tsp Ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp Dried coriander
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 tbsp Lemon juice

Instructions

1. 1Measure 1 cup of dried fava beans into a large bowl. Cover the beans with plenty of cool water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let the beans soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
2. 2Drain and rinse the soaked 1 cup of dried fava beans thoroughly. Place the rinsed beans into a large heavy-bottomed pot. Add 6 cups of water to the pot.
3. 3Bring the water and beans to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are very soft and easily mashed.
4. 4Carefully drain the cooked fava beans, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid. Transfer the drained beans to a food processor. Add the 4 cloves of garlic, 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, 1/2 cup of green bell pepper, 1 tsp of ground cumin, 1/2 tsp of dried coriander, 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper, and 1 tsp of salt to the food processor.
5. 5Process the mixture until it is smooth. While the food processor is running, gradually add the reserved cooking liquid, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired dip consistency.
6. 6Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl. Stir in the 2 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of lemon juice until fully combined.
7. 7Serve the Egyptian Spiced Fava Bean Dip warm or at room temperature.

Related Guides