Broad beans, or fava beans, are a nutritional powerhouse often overlooked. Their subtly sweet flavor and firm texture lend themselves beautifully to grilling, unlocking a depth of taste impossible to achieve through boiling or steaming. This recipe elevates the humble broad bean into a sophisticated yet simple snack, perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant appetizer, or a healthy addition to any summer meal. The addition of cumin and lemon creates a fragrant and zesty profile that complements the beans' natural earthiness, making this dish both satisfying and refreshing.
Forget bland boiled beans! This recipe shows you how to transform ordinary broad beans into a culinary delight. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the beans to achieving that perfect smoky char. Get ready to discover a new favorite way to enjoy this underappreciated legume, and prepare to be amazed by how easily you can elevate a simple ingredient into something truly special.
Tools Needed
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife
Ingredients
- Broad beans (fava beans)
- Water
- Salt
- Cumin
- Cayenne pepper
- Lemons (preferably Sicilian)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broad Beans
- Open the broad bean pods and remove the beans. Larger pods yield larger, sweeter beans.
- Wash the beans and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the beans in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the skin is nicely charred, flipping halfway through.
Step 2. Create a Flavorful Brine
- Prepare a quick brine of water and salt. Soak the cooked beans in the brine for about 30 minutes to soften the skin and allow the beans to absorb some salt.
- Cut the lemons (preferably Sicilian) into bite-sized pieces, removing the seeds. Cut away the yellow skin, leaving most of the white rind.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Drain the brine from the beans. Add cumin and cayenne pepper. Squeeze the leftover lemon juice over the beans and mix gently.
Step 4. Serve
- Transfer the beans to a serving dish, arrange the lemon pieces on the side, sprinkle with salt, and finish with an extra dash of cumin and cayenne.
Read more: Arabian Flame Grilled Fish (Samak Mashwi) Recipe
Tips
- For a tastier snack, select larger broad bean pods with bigger beans.
- Roasting the beans on parchment paper helps maintain moisture and prevents burning.
- If using regular lemons instead of Sicilian lemons, simply use the lemon juice.
- Traditional way to eat: press the bean out of its shell and suck out the flavorful liquid, discarding the skin.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broad beans?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling to prevent steaming instead of grilling.
2. What if I don't have fresh lemon?
Lemon juice from a bottle will work, but fresh lemon zest adds a significant burst of flavor. Consider using lime as an alternative citrus.
These grilled broad beans with cumin and lemon offer a delightful and healthy snack or side dish, perfect for any occasion. The simple preparation belies the complex and satisfying flavors, making this recipe a keeper for both seasoned cooks and culinary novices. Enjoy the burst of freshness and savor the unique taste of perfectly grilled broad beans!