Bissara with Fava Beans

Bissara with Fava Beans is a traditional Moroccan soup that combines the earthy flavors of fava beans with aromatic spices, resulting in a creamy, nourishing dish. It is often enjoyed as a hearty appetizer or light main course, perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• Dried fava beans - 200 grams
• Water - 1 liter
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Harissa (optional) - to taste

Steps

1. Soak the dried fava beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours, then rinse and drain them.
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked fava beans and 1 liter of fresh water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook the beans for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
4. Once the beans are cooked, add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend to your desired consistency.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, drizzled with olive oil, and garnished with chopped parsley and cilantro. Add harissa if desired for extra heat.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle health and satiety.
• Rich in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.

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