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Ful Medames

An authentic recipe for classic Ful Medames, featuring mashed fava beans infused with garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and plenty of olive oil.

Level Easy Prep 10 min Cook 15 min Servings 4 Score 4.9/10
Ready in
25 min

Makes 4 servings

Prep 10m
Cook 15m
Level Easy

About this recipe

An authentic recipe for classic Ful Medames, featuring mashed fava beans infused with garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and plenty of olive oil.

A classic Middle Eastern and Egyptian breakfast staple made from slow-cooked fava beans mashed and seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin.

Ingredients

Main

Dressing

Garnish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan For warming the beans
  • Potato masher or fork For mashing beans
  • Small bowl and whisk For mixing dressing

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the canned fava beans and water or vegetable broth. Heat over medium heat until warm.

  2. Using a potato masher or fork, coarsely mash about half of the fava beans while leaving the rest whole for texture.

  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt.

  4. Pour the dressing mixture into the warm fava beans and stir well, simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes.

  5. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and top with diced tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley, an extra drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Nutrition

Calories 240
Protein 10g
Carbs 28g
Fat 11g
Fiber 8g
Sugar 2g
Sodium 420mg
Serving Size 1 serving

Cooking Timeline

Prep 10 min
Cook 15 min
Total 25 min

Recipe Scorecard

Overall 9.4 /10
Expert 4.9 95% conf.
  • Taste 9.6
  • Presentation 9.2
  • Nutrition 9.0
  • Value 9.5
  • Instructions 9.5
  • Ingredients 9.5
  • Time Accuracy 9.5
  • Difficulty 9.5
  • Would Make Again 9.5

Expert Review

Verdict

A deeply comforting, protein-packed traditional breakfast dish loaded with bright citrus and garlic flavors.

Pros

  • Rich in plant-based protein
  • Hearty and filling
  • Simple ingredients

Cons

  • Best enjoyed immediately while warm

Overview

An iconic Middle Eastern fava bean dish seasoned with garlic, lemon, cumin, and olive oil.

AI Insights

Summary

An authentic recipe for classic Ful Medames, featuring mashed fava beans infused with garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and plenty of olive oil.

Tips

  • Do not mash all the beans completely; leaving some whole provides the best texture
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil as it plays a major role in the overall flavor
  • Serve with warm pita bread and fresh mint or radishes on the side

Substitutions

  • Canned fava beans → Canned chickpeas or black-eyed peas
  • Lemon juice → Lime juice

Storage

Store leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

Pairing

  • Warm pita or flatbread
  • Hard-boiled eggs and fresh mint tea

AI Cooking Assistant

Ask about substitutions, timing, or technique for this recipe.

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FAQ

Can I use dried fava beans instead of canned?
Yes, but they require overnight soaking and several hours of simmering until completely tender.
What is normally served with Ful Medames?
It is traditionally served warm with Egyptian flatbread or pita, fresh vegetables, and hard-boiled eggs.

About the Author

FindEdition Kitchen

Specialty: Middle Eastern cuisine

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For higher ratings, consider Authentic Arabian Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Toum (9.7/10). A quicker option is Authentic Turkish Eggs (Cilbir) with Warm Chili Butter.

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