Vegan Egyptian Ful Medames
Ful medames is one of the oldest and most beloved dishes in Egyptian cuisine, and this version delivers every bit of the warmth and depth that makes it so satisfying. Creamy, partially mashed fava beans are bloomed with garlic, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, then finished with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and good olive oil — the kind of simple combination that somehow tastes like it took all day. The whole thing comes together in one saucepan and a small skillet, making it an incredibly approachable weeknight meal that serves four. Every single ingredient here is naturally plant-based, so there's no swapping or substituting required — this dish has always been built this way. Topped with diced tomato, fresh parsley, and an extra drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, each bowl looks as vibrant as it tastes. Scoop it up with warm pita or crusty bread and you've got a complete, protein-rich meal that's as nourishing as it is delicious.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 cans (15 oz each) fava beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup water
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- pita bread or crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Can be omittedcrusty bread
Instructions
- 1
Combine the drained fava beans and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes, until the beans are heated through and have absorbed most of the water.
- 2
While the beans simmer, heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and just turning golden at the edges, about 2 minutes. Watch closely — garlic can brown quickly. Add the cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds, until the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat.
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