What Are Fresh Fava Beans?
Fresh fava beans are the immature, green-podded form of the fava plant (Vicia faba), a member of the legume family. As one of the first crops of spring, they are sold in bunches in their pods at markets; the pods are thick and spongy, and the beans inside are large and pale green.
As the plant matures, the dried beans become firm and are used to make fava, while fresh fava beans are cooked directly like a vegetable.
Fresh Fava Bean Nutrition Facts
Shelled fresh fava beans contain about 88 kcal of energy, 7.9 g of protein, and 5.4 g of fiber per 100 g. They are among the legumes notable for plant-based protein and also provide vitamin C and potassium.
What Are the Benefits of Fresh Fava Beans?
High in plant-based protein and fiber, fresh fava beans are a filling vegetable-legume option as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; fresh fava beans are a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. In people with the inherited G6PD enzyme deficiency known as favism, eating fava beans can cause a serious reaction. Anyone who knows or suspects they have this condition should consult a doctor before eating fava beans.
How to Choose Fresh Fava Beans
Fresh fava beans should have bright, pale-green pods that feel firm and full; yellowed or wrinkled bunches may be stale.
- The pods should be bright green, firm, and full.
- When a pod is opened, the beans should be firm and pale in color.
- Very large, hardened beans are less tender; choose small to medium ones.
How to Store Fresh Fava Beans
Fresh fava beans in their pods stay fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Shelled beans spoil more quickly, so use them within 1–2 days or boil and freeze them.
How to Use Fresh Fava Beans in the Kitchen
Fresh fava beans are most often cooked as a vegetable dish with olive oil; they can also be boiled and mashed into fava or grilled in their pods.
How to Make Olive-Oil Fresh Fava Beans
Cook the shelled beans over low heat in olive oil with onion, carrot, and dill, adding enough water to cover them, until tender. Serve warm.
Fresh Fava Bean Fava
Boil the fresh fava beans and purée them with onion, then season with olive oil and lemon. Sprinkle with dill and serve as a meze.
Which Recipes Use Fresh Fava Beans?
Popular recipes include olive-oil fava beans, fava made with fresh beans, and rice pilaf with fava beans; grilled fava beans in their pods are also served.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are fresh fava beans good for?
Fresh fava beans are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium and can be part of a balanced diet. They are a food and are not claimed to treat disease.
What is favism, and how is it related to fava beans?
Favism is an inherited condition in which eating fava beans or taking certain medications can trigger the breakdown of red blood cells in people with G6PD enzyme deficiency. It is important for these individuals to consult a doctor before eating fava beans.
Can fresh fava beans be eaten raw?
Very young, small beans can be eaten raw in small amounts, but they are generally preferred boiled or cooked.
What is the difference between fresh and dried fava beans?
Fresh fava beans are the immature, green form of the plant and are cooked like a vegetable. Dried fava beans are mature seeds that have been dried; they are usually soaked and boiled for dishes such as fava.
How do you shell fresh fava beans?
Open the thick outer pod by hand or with a knife and remove the beans. If desired, after boiling them, peel off the thin skin around each bean as well for a softer texture.