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Breakfast

Egyptian Ful Medames

The Quirky Foodster Team

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10 min
Prep
40 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 400 g (14 oz (2 cups)) Dried fava beans
  • 3 cloves Garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 60 ml (1/4 cup) Olive oil
  • 45 ml (3 tbsp) Fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 medium Tomato, diced
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped

Method

  1. Soak the dried fava beans in water overnight, then drain.
  2. Place beans in a saucepan, cover with fresh water and simmer for 35–40 minutes until soft.
  3. Reserve a cup of the cooking liquid, then drain the beans.
  4. Mash the beans lightly with a potato masher, leaving some texture, adding reserved liquid as needed.
  5. Stir in the crushed garlic, cumin, olive oil, lemon juice and salt.
  6. Spoon into bowls and top with diced tomato and chopped parsley.
  7. Serve warm with fresh baladi bread.

Introduction: Egypt's national breakfast dish, ful medames dates back to Pharaonic times and remains the everyday morning meal for millions of Egyptians, served from street carts and home kitchens alike, usually scooped up with fresh baladi bread.

Cultural Background: Egypt's national breakfast dish, ful medames dates back to Pharaonic times and remains the everyday morning meal for millions of Egyptians, served from street carts and home kitchens alike, usually scooped up with fresh baladi bread.

Tips: – Canned fava beans cut the cooking time to 10 minutes if you are short on time. A drizzle of extra olive oil just before serving adds richness.

Variations: – Add a fried or soft-boiled egg on top for a heartier breakfast. Some households stir in a spoonful of tahini for a nuttier finish. Naturally vegan as written.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water, stirring often.

Nutrition: Calories: 260 kcal | Protein: 13 g | Carbs: 34 g | Fat: 9 g | Fiber: 10 g

FAQs:

Q: Can I use canned fava beans?

A: Yes, drain and heat them through, then mash and season the same way.

Q: What bread goes best with ful medames?

A: Fresh Egyptian baladi flatbread is traditional for scooping.

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