Ful bi Zeit
Egyptian Fava Beans with Olive Oil and Lemon
A refreshing and simple Egyptian cold fava bean salad, perfect for a light summer meal. It features tender fava beans dressed in a zesty lemon and olive oil mixture, infused with garlic and cumin.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Cooked fava beans(Canned or pre-cooked. If using dried, they must be cooked until tender and cooled.)
- 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil(Good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor.)
- 3 tbsp Fresh lemon juice(About 1-2 medium lemons. Adjust to your taste.)
- 2 cloves Garlic(Finely minced or grated.)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fava beans: If using canned fava beans, drain them thoroughly in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove excess brine. If they are whole, you can gently press them to slightly break them up, or leave them whole for a chunkier texture. If using pre-cooked dried fava beans, ensure they are cooled.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 2
Mince the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and mince them very finely. For a milder garlic flavor, you can grate them or mash them into a paste with the salt using the side of your knife or a mortar and pestle. This helps to distribute the garlic evenly and mellow its sharpness.
⏱️ 4 minutes - 3
Combine the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Assemble the dish: In a medium serving bowl, add the prepared fava beans. Pour the dressing over the beans. Gently toss everything together until the beans are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure all ingredients are well distributed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Serve: Ful bi Zeit is best served chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with a drizzle of extra olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread, pita bread, or as part of a mezze platter.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother texture, you can lightly mash some of the fava beans before adding the dressing.
- ✓Ensure the fava beans are completely cooled before mixing for the best refreshing effect.
- ✓This dish is ideal for a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish, especially during warmer months.
- ✓Serve with warm pita bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
- Include diced tomatoes or chopped red onion for extra texture and flavor.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat.
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tahini to the dressing.