Fava beans are a remarkably versatile and delightful ingredient that enhances various dishes. They can be used in dips, salads, soups, and stews to add a creamy, nutty taste and a vibrant green hue to your meal.
Type of Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Prep Time: 15 minutes.
Cook Time: 5 minutes
How Many Servings?
4 servings
Fava bean dip is a creamy, flavorful Mediterranean delight that brings back fond memories of my childhood. Growing up in a home filled with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean aromas, fresh fava beans were a seasonal treat. As soon as spring arrived, my mom would clean and blanch them, ensuring their freshness for months. These tender beans would then be transformed into a vibrant dip infused with sautéed onions, roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon.
While this dip is my personal favorite, fava beans are also enjoyed in their dry form in the Middle East, particularly in foul mudammas—a hearty, creamy dish served with warm pita. When I want a quick snack, I boil dry fava beans until tender, then serve them with a sprinkle of cumin and a squeeze of lemon—craving another fava bean dish? Check out my Fresh Fava Beans Sautéed with Garlic & Lemon recipe!
How to Prepare Fava Beans
Properly prepping your beans before making a delicious fava bean dip is key. The method you choose depends on their freshness. Younger beans have softer outer shells, while mature ones may need extra peeling. Here’s how to prepare them:
Whole Beans with Pods
- If using the entire pod, remove any strings from both sides.
- Chop into 1-inch pieces.
- Sauté with onions, garlic, cilantro, and lemon for a hearty dish inspired by traditional flavors.
Shelled Beans
- Snap off the stem and remove beans from the pod.
- To peel, blanch in hot water for 5 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Gently squeeze to pop them out of their skins.
- These tender beans are perfect for dips, salads, sauces, or risotto.
Dry Fava Beans
- Soak in water for 24 hours (adding baking soda speeds up the process).
- Cook in a pot with water until tender.
- Popular in the Middle East, they are often served as street food—boiled, sprinkled with cumin and salt, and finished with a squeeze of lemon.
Enhancing the Flavor of Fresh Fava Beans
The creamy and mild taste of fava beans pairs beautifully with bold, bright flavors like lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. Shallots add a subtle sweetness, while jalapeño brings a touch of heat. Fresh coriander and cilantro enhance the herbaceous notes, and feta cheese contributes a salty, tangy contrast. A hint of mint provides a refreshing balance, rounding out the flavors of this dip.
For variations, you can experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste. Parsley, basil, or oregano can add an Italian-inspired twist, while cumin and paprika create a smoky, earthy depth. If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, try blending in roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, savory note. For a Middle Eastern flair, a sprinkle of sumac or za’atar enhances the dip with citrusy, aromatic undertones. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your dip to your liking!
What to Serve with Fava Bean Dip?
Fava bean dip is a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with various foods. It can elevate a simple sandwich with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumber, and sprouts or be spread on a crispy baguette, pita, or taboon bread. While Foul is a dish on its own, it can also be served alongside other Middle Eastern dips such as baba ganoush, muhammara, and hummus to create a well-rounded and satisfying breakfast experience.
Preparation
Creamy and flavorful, this fava bean dip is the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. Made with fresh fava beans, roasted garlic, and a mix of herbs and spices, this dip is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Type of Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Prep Time: 15 minutes.
Cook Time: 5 minutes
How Many Servings?
4 servings
Ingredients:
| 2 lb fresh fava beans prepared (about 6 oz of fresh beans) | |
| ½ small shallots (diced) | |
| 4 cloves roasted garlic (with 2 tablespoons of olive oil) | |
| 1 teaspoon jalapeno pepper (chopped) | |
| 1 teaspoon coriander | |
| Juice of one lemon | |
| ¼ cup fresh mint (chopped) | |
| ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped) | |
| 2 tablespoon feta cheese (leave out if you want it vegan) | |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Preparation
Recipe Tips & Suggestions
How to prepare fresh Fava Beans
Storage instruction for the dip:
Nutrition Information
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice.
See our full nutrition disclosure here.
Subscribe to my newsletter for authentic Mediterranean recipes, essential cooking tips, and the latest food news, all delivered directly to your inbox for FREE. Let’s create memorable dishes together!
Have you tried making this fresh and flavorful fava bean dip? I would love to hear about your experience. Please feel free to leave a comment below.