Egyptian
Ful Medames
Ful Medames is a staple Egyptian breakfast dish made of fava beans cooked with oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin. It is creamy, hearty, and traditionally eaten with bread.
Watch it madeThe Plant Slant · 1:20
Ingredients
- Fava Beans2 cans or 2 cups dried
- Garlic2 cloves
- Lemon Juice2 tbsp
- Olive Oil3 tbsp
- Cumin1 tsp
- Parsley2 tbsp, chopped
- Saltto taste
Method
- If using dried beans, soak them overnight. If canned, rinse them thoroughly.
- Simmer the beans in a pot with a little water until heated through and very tender.
- Mash the beans slightly with a fork or potato masher to create a textured consistency.
- Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, cumin, and salt.
- Serve warm with fresh bread and garnish with chopped parsley and tomatoes.
Common questions
Can I use canned fava beans instead of dried beans for ful medames?
Yes. Canned fava beans are a great shortcut. Rinse them well to remove excess starch and salty brine, then simmer gently just until hot and very tender. They mash easily and still give a good texture.
How long does ful medames take if I start with dried beans?
Dried fava beans need an overnight soak, then simmering until fully tender, usually 1 to 2 hours depending on age of the beans. Older beans can take longer, so start checking early for softness.
What are the most common mistakes when making ful medames?
The biggest mistakes are undercooking the beans, overcooking them into complete mush, and adding too much garlic or lemon at once. Season gradually, and keep some texture by mashing only slightly rather than pureeing.
How do I store leftover ful medames?
Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 4 days. It thickens as it sits, so add a splash of water when reheating. Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What should I serve with ful medames besides bread?
Warm pita or flatbread is classic, but it also works with rice, chopped tomatoes, cucumber, pickles, or a simple salad. A drizzle of olive oil and extra lemon on top helps brighten the dish.