Favas
Favas is a hearty and flavorful bean dish featuring tender fava beans simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce. The combination of onion, spices, and ketchup creates a rich, slightly sweet, and spicy profile that appeals to those who enjoy comforting, plant-based meals with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in vegetable oil until translucent.
- Add 3 tablespoons of water and 1/4 cup ketchup, stir well and simmer.
- Add more water if needed to maintain consistency.
- Stir in red pepper, parsley flakes, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Cook for 5 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add another 1/4 cup ketchup and the can of fava beans with juice.
- Simmer for about 5 more minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the fava beans before adding them to the dish. You can also substitute fava beans with chickpeas for a different taste. This recipe works well as a base for Mediterranean recipes, so feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served as a hearty side or a main dish with crusty bread or over rice. Pair it with a fresh salad, like Greek Cabbage Soup, for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with herbed yogurt cheese for added creaminess. A drizzle of rosemary honey can elevate the flavors even further.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to maintain the consistency. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favas contains roughly 198 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried fava beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried fava beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. This will require more time and planning, as dried beans take longer to cook. Make sure to follow the package instructions for soaking and cooking to achieve the right texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a great option for those looking for plant-based meals. You can enhance its nutritional value by adding more vegetables or serving it alongside a protein-rich dish like Marinated Fish Kabobs for non-vegans.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can add more red pepper liquid for extra heat or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper liquid or omit it altogether. Always taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).