Fava Beans (Broad Beans)
1 min readserves 4
Sometimes prescribed as a remedy for indigestion, this dish warms the stomach and the spleen and dispels cold and dampness. Fava beans, also known as broad beans, contain plenty of soluble fiber and are therefore an efficient remedy for constipation. Soluble fiber also lowers cholesterol levels in the blood. In China, fava beans are usually eaten in summer when people tend to consume large quantities of garlic as a protection against bacteria that develop more easily in the heat. For the Chinese ten or fifteen cloves would be normal. The amount we have suggested for this recipeis 3 tablespoons (45 grams) crushed garlic, less than people would actually use in China. The amount of garlic you use for this dish depends on your fondness for its taste.
2 cups (400 grams) fresh fava beans, or 1 cup (200 grams) dried fava beans Water for soaking
5 cups (1.25 liters) water
3 tablespoons (45 grams) crushed garlic
2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) sesame or olive oil
1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) vinegar
2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) soy sauce
Salt to taste
If using dried beans, soak them overnight and then peel them. If fresh, remove them from their pods. Bring the water to boil in a large saucepan and add the fava beans. Boil fresh beans over a medium flame for 15 minutes; boil dried beans for 30 minutes. Remove the beans from the water and strain. Season with crushed garlic, oil, vinegar, and soy sauce, adding salt, if desired, to taste.
