Foul Medames
Foul Medames is a comforting, flavorful dish made from tender fava beans seasoned with garlic, olive oil, cumin, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.This Egyptian classic is enjoyed throughout the Middle East, often served for breakfast but perfect for any time of day.It's simple to prepare, nutritious, and customizable, making it a great choice for both casual meals and special occasions.Whether you enjoy it with pita bread, a drizzle of tahini, or a boiled egg on top, Foul Medames offers a rich, earthy flavor profile that is both satisfying and hearty.
Equipment
- Large Pot (for stovetop cooking): 1 (6-8 quart size)
- Pressure Cooker (optional for quicker cooking): 1
- Pan (for sautéing garlic and spices): 1
- Potato Masher or Fork (for mashing beans): 1
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Dried Fava Beans – 2 cups or canned fava beans, 2 cans
- Olive Oil – 3 tbsp
- Garlic – 4 cloves minced
- Ground Cumin – 1 tsp
- Paprika – ½ tsp optional
- Lemon Juice – 2 tbsp freshly squeezed
- Fresh Parsley – ¼ cup chopped
- Salt – 1 tsp or to taste
- Black Pepper – ½ tsp or to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- Tahini – 2 tbsp for extra creaminess
- Chili Peppers or Hot Sauce – 1 tsp for spice, optional
- Tomatoes – 1 medium chopped (optional)
- Onion – 1 small chopped (optional)
- Boiled Eggs – 2 optional, for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Fava Beans:
- If using dried fava beans: Soak the beans in plenty of water overnight. Drain and rinse them before cooking.Add them to a large pot with fresh water, making sure the beans are covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5 - 2 hours until tender. Add more water if necessary during the cooking process.
- If using canned fava beans: Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
Sauté the Garlic and Spices:
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the cumin, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another minute.
Mash the Beans:
- Add the cooked fava beans (or canned beans) to the pan with the garlic and spices.Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the beans lightly, leaving some whole and others mashed for a creamy texture. Add a little of the cooking liquid (or water) to adjust the consistency.
Add Lemon and Seasonings:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the beans and mix well. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed.Add tahini for extra creaminess, if desired.
Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the Foul Medames with chopped fresh parsley on top.Optional: Add chopped tomatoes, onions, or boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture. Drizzle with additional olive oil if preferred. Serve with warm pita bread for scooping.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back its creamy consistency.
- Make Ahead: Foul Medames can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together for even better taste.
- Customize the Spices: Adjust the amount of cumin, garlic, and lemon juice to suit your tastes. If you like it spicier, add chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Add Protein: To make Foul Medames even heartier, top with a boiled egg or serve with a side of yogurt for extra protein.