She Strengthens

Spring’s Sweet Arrival: Fresh Fava Bean Purée

As the seasons change, our plates transform to reflect the vibrant flavors of spring. One of the most delightful signs of this seasonal shift is the arrival of fresh fava beans. These tender legumes can be transformed into a luscious purée, perfect for spreading on crusty bread or serving alongside roasted meats.

The Magic of Fava Beans

Fava beans are a treasure trove of nutrients, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. When shelled and cooked, they reveal a bright green, buttery interior that’s simply irresistible. This recipe showcases the versatility of favas, turning them into a creamy, aromatic purée that’s sure to impress.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this springtime delight, you’ll need:

• 3 cups of fava beans, shelled and removed from their pods
• 6 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 3/4 cup of water
• 1 medium thyme sprig
• 1 (6-inch) rosemary sprig
• 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

The Purée Process

Begin by preparing an ice water bath to shock the fava beans after cooking. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the favas until they’re bright green and firm, about 1-2 minutes. Drain and immediately submerge them in the ice water bath to stop the cooking process.

Once cooled, peel the light green skin from each bean to reveal the tender interior. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat, adding garlic and cooking until fragrant. Add the reserved favas, water, thyme, and rosemary, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, then continue cooking until the beans are tender, about 10 minutes more.

Blending to Perfection

Transfer the fava mixture to a blender and blend on low until coarsely chopped. Set aside a third of the mixture, then continue blending until the remaining favas are finely puréed. If the purée is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time to achieve the desired consistency.

Finishing Touches

Stir the reserved chopped favas into the purée, along with lemon juice and the remaining olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then drizzle with additional olive oil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature, paired with crusty bread, roasted meats, or as a dip for crudités.

This vibrant fava bean purée is a true celebration of spring’s bounty, bursting with fresh flavors and aromas. Savor the taste of the season with every delicious bite!