Best Easy Fave e Cicoria Recipe

Puréed fava beans with wild chicory is Puglia's iconic vegetarian dish. This mediterranean classic is high in protein and fiber, a fresh, healthy family meal ideal for clean eats.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 225 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • dried split fava beans 1.5 cups
  • wild chicory or dandelion greens 1 lb
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • extra-virgin olive oil 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • sea salt 1 tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 30 g 53%
Protein 11 g 19%
Fat 6 g 28%
Serving size 280g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the dried split fava beans thoroughly under cold water, then place in a pot with the peeled whole onion and cover with cold water by 2 inches.

  2. 2

    Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, skimming off foam, and cook uncovered for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are soft and beginning to break apart.

  3. 3

    While the beans are cooking, wash the wild chicory or dandelion greens thoroughly and trim any tough stems. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then blanch the greens for 5–6 minutes until tender but still bright. Drain and set aside.

  4. 4

    When the beans are very tender and most liquid is absorbed, remove the onion and discard. Mash the beans well with a wooden spoon or whisk over low heat, stirring in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a creamy, smooth texture. Season with sea salt and black pepper.

  5. 5

    To serve, spread the fava purée onto a plate and top with the wilted chicory. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and a pinch of extra salt if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredient is dried split fava beans. They create the creamy, protein-rich base and define the authentic flavor and texture of Fave e Cicoria. The pairing with wild chicory or dandelion greens adds pleasant bitterness and freshness, but fava beans are at the heart of this signature Puglian dish.
Q. How do I get ultra-smooth fava bean purée?
For a silky texture, simmer the fava beans gently with the onion, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. After draining excess water and removing the onion, mash the beans thoroughly over low heat and mix in olive oil to emulsify. Consistent stirring and proper mashing prevent lumps and yield a velvety purée.
Q. How many calories and what are the main nutrition stats per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 kcal, with 30g carbohydrate (53% of calories), 11g protein (19%), and 6g fat (28%). This balance makes it a healthy, high-protein, Mediterranean vegetarian dish suitable for clean eating and fiber-rich diets.
Q. What’s the purpose of blanching the greens instead of stewing them?
Blanching the chicory or dandelion greens in salted boiling water for just a few minutes helps retain their vivid color and fresh, slightly bitter flavor, while avoiding overcooking and bitterness. This process keeps their texture tender, yet lively, pairing perfectly with the creamy fava purée.
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