Authentic Turkish Fava Recipe - Delicious and Healthy

Fava

Authentic Turkish Fava Recipe - Delicious and Healthy
Region / culture: Turkey | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Fava
Fava

Fava is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from dried fava beans. It is a flavorful and nutritious recipe that is perfect for a hearty meal.

History

Fava has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is a popular dish in countries like Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria, where it is often served as a side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Soak the dried fava beans overnight, then boil them in 3 cups of water until they become mushy.
  2. Place the fava beans and all the remaining ingredients in a blender (or mix well by hand) and pour the mixture into two deep platters.
  3. Once set, cut the mixture into squares and serve with parsley as a garnish.

Variations

  • Add chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for a fresh and crunchy twist.
  • Top with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the dried fava beans overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.

- Boiling the fava beans until they become mushy ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adding garlic, salt, sugar, olive oil, and lemon juice enhances the flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Fava can be served as a side dish or appetizer, alongside pita bread, olives, and pickled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the fava beans until they are soft and mushy.

- Blend the ingredients together for a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned fava beans instead of dried fava beans for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Fava can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the fava with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a few sprigs of fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fava pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and a side of hummus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fava in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fava contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Fava is a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams.

Fats

Fava is a rich source of healthy fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams.

Proteins

Fava is a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 10 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

Fava is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Fava is gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Summary

Fava is a nutritious dish that is high in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Fava is a delicious and nutritious Middle Eastern dish made from dried fava beans. It is packed with flavor and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying recipe for a taste of the Middle East.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Fava. It all started many years ago when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Greece. My grandmother, Yiayia Maria, was the queen of the kitchen and she knew how to make the most delicious dishes using only the freshest ingredients.

One day, as I was helping Yiayia Maria pick fresh vegetables from the garden, she mentioned that she was going to make her famous Fava for dinner that night. I had never heard of Fava before, but the way she described it - a creamy, flavorful dish made from yellow split peas - made my mouth water with anticipation.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I eagerly watched as Yiayia Maria prepared the Fava. She started by rinsing the split peas in cold water, then she simmered them in a pot with onion, garlic, and a bay leaf until they were soft and creamy. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was irresistible, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When Yiayia Maria finally served the Fava, I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a world of flavor and comfort. The creamy texture of the split peas, combined with the savory onions and garlic, created a dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. From that moment on, Fava became a staple in our household, and I made sure to learn the recipe from Yiayia Maria so that I could recreate it for my own family one day.

Over the years, I have made Fava countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and tangy flavor, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of freshness. No matter how I make it, though, the dish always brings back memories of my childhood and the time spent in the kitchen with Yiayia Maria.

As I grew older and started my own family, I passed down the recipe for Fava to my own children, just as Yiayia Maria had done for me. It became a tradition in our household, a dish that we would make together on lazy Sunday afternoons or special occasions. And just like Yiayia Maria, I would watch with pride as my children took their first bites of the creamy, comforting dish that had been passed down through generations.

I often think about the origins of the Fava recipe, wondering where Yiayia Maria learned to make it in the first place. Perhaps it was passed down from her own mother or grandmother, or maybe she picked it up from a neighbor or friend. Regardless of its origins, I am grateful that the recipe found its way into our family, bringing us together around the dinner table and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a pot of Fava for dinner, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the generations before me who have cooked this dish with love and care. The recipe may have come from far and wide, but its true home is in the hearts of my family, where it will continue to be passed down and cherished for years to come. And as I take my first bite of the creamy, flavorful Fava, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the love and traditions that have been woven into every spoonful.

Categories

| Black Olive Recipes | Fava Bean Recipes | Turkish Appetizers | Turkish Recipes | Turkish Salads |

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