Bean dish with fried food

The joy of cooking is often tied to memories, and the recipe for fava beans with sauté is a childhood treasure, a true symbol of simple and authentic flavors. In an increasingly busy world, where processed ingredients dominate, this recipe reminds us of the beauty of traditional dishes that connect us to our grandparents' kitchens and the moments spent with family. Fava beans, or Vicia faba, are a legume rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients, and their consumption brings numerous health benefits. Unfortunately, their popularity has declined, but we will bring this ingredient back to life with a simple yet delicious recipe.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 325 g dried fava beans
- Water (for soaking and boiling)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 medium onions
- 6 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the fava beans
1. Soak the fava beans: The night before preparing the recipe, place the dried fava beans in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak overnight. This step is essential as it helps the beans swell and cook evenly.

2. Shelling the fava beans: The next day, drain the beans and rinse them under cold running water. Use a small knife to remove the outer skin of the beans. It’s a bit of a tedious process, but it’s worth the effort for a finer texture.

Step 2: Cooking the fava beans
1. Boiling the fava beans: Place the shelled beans in a pot and add fresh water, ensuring that the water covers the beans by 4-5 cm. Add a little salt. If you have a pressure cooker, use it to reduce cooking time. Boil the beans for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, until they become soft and start to break down. If using a regular pot, check the water level periodically and add more if necessary.

Step 3: Preparing the sauté
1. Chopping the onions: Peel the onions, wash them, and chop them finely. Evenly chopping the onions will ensure even sautéing and a delicious taste.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they become golden and soft. This will add a savory flavor and an enticing aroma to the dish.

3. Adding the tomato paste: Once the onions are sautéed, add the tomato paste and mix well. Allow it to simmer together for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
1. The final mix: Transfer the boiled and drained fava beans to a serving dish. Pour the onion and tomato mixture over the beans and gently mix. If you want the flavors to infuse better, use a knife to lightly cut the beans without completely mashing them.

Step 5: Serving
1. Serve with style: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. It is delicious served on a slice of fresh bread but can also be enjoyed as is, alongside a green salad.

Tips and practical advice:
- Vegan option: Use olive oil for a healthier choice and a more pronounced flavor.
- Flavor additions: You can add spices like cumin or sweet paprika for an extra kick.
- Storing the beans: If you don’t use all the beans, keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days, or freeze them for later use.
- Nutritional benefits: Fava beans are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium, making them an excellent ingredient for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why should I soak the fava beans?: Soaking the beans helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.
- Can I use frozen fava beans?: Yes, but the cooking time will differ. Frozen beans will cook faster.
- What other dishes can they be combined with?: This fava bean dish pairs excellently with a fresh salad or a yogurt garlic sauce.

This recipe for fava beans with sauté is not just a dish but a journey through time, a evocation of cherished childhood memories. With every bite, you will taste the authentic aroma of culinary traditions and bring a touch of the past into the present. So, get ready to impress family and friends with this simple yet flavorful recipe! Enjoy!