Besara
Egyptian Fava Bean Dip
A vibrant and flavorful Egyptian dip made from tender fava beans and a generous amount of fresh herbs. This vegetarian classic is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, served with crusty bread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fava beans (fresh or frozen, shelled)(If using fresh, ensure they are shelled. Frozen beans are a convenient alternative.)
- 1 cup Fresh dill(Packed loosely.)
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(Packed loosely.)
- 0.5 cup Fresh cilantro(Packed loosely. Adjust to your preference; some prefer less cilantro.)
- 6 cloves Garlic cloves(Peeled. Adjust quantity based on your love for garlic.)
- 2 tsp Ground cumin(Adds an earthy, warm flavor.)
- 1 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
- 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil(For serving. Use a good quality oil for best flavor.)
- 1 loaf Crusty bread(For serving.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the fava beans: If using fresh fava beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then shock in ice water and peel off the outer skin. If using frozen, you can skip this peeling step. Place the shelled fava beans in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are very tender and easily mashable. Drain well, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 2
Prepare the herb and garlic mixture: While the beans are cooking, roughly chop the fresh dill, parsley, and cilantro. Mince the garlic cloves or pulse them briefly in a food processor until finely chopped.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Blend the ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the cooked and drained fava beans, chopped herbs, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is mostly smooth but still has a little texture. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon at a time of the reserved cooking liquid or a little water until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-process into a paste; a slightly rustic texture is desirable.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Taste and adjust seasoning: Sample the besara and add more salt, pepper, or cumin if needed. The flavor should be fresh and herbaceous with a hint of garlic and cumin.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Serve: Transfer the besara to a serving bowl. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately or chilled with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a brighter green color, ensure your herbs are very fresh and consider adding a small handful of fresh spinach during blending.
- ✓Don't skimp on the herbs; they are key to the fresh flavor and vibrant color of besara.
- ✓Serve with warm, crusty bread like pita or a baguette for the best dipping experience.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a richer flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the blend.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the ingredients in the food processor rather than blending until completely smooth.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the finished dip for a touch of acidity.