Ful Medames is a classic Egyptian dish made from fava beans, slow-cooked and seasoned with garlic, cumin, and lemon juice. This hearty, nutritious stew is traditionally served with warm pita bread and garnished with fresh tomatoes, parsley, and olive oil. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that has been a staple in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine for centuries.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich in Protein and Fiber – Fava beans provide a nutritious and filling meal.
Easy to Make – Uses minimal ingredients and is ready in minutes.
Budget-Friendly – A cost-effective meal using pantry staples.
Perfect for Any Meal – Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Customizable – Add toppings like boiled eggs, tahini, or chili for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Beans:

2 cups cooked fava beans (or 1 can, drained)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Toppings:

1 small tomato, diced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Fava Beans

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Add the cooked fava beans and mash them slightly with a fork, leaving some texture.
Stir in the cumin, salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon juice.
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

Garnish & Serve

Transfer the ful medames to a serving dish and drizzle generously with olive oil.
Top with diced tomatoes and chopped parsley.
Serve warm with lemon wedges and pita bread for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version – Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Tahini Addition – Stir in a spoonful of tahini for a creamier texture.
Egg Topping – Serve with a boiled or fried egg for extra protein.
Cheese Garnish – Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for added richness.
Herb Infusion – Mix in fresh mint or cilantro for extra freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

What does “Ful Medames” mean?

“Ful” means fava beans, and “Medames” refers to the process of slow cooking or stewing them.

Can I use dried fava beans instead of canned?

Yes! Soak dried beans overnight, then cook them in water until soft before using.

Is Ful Medames served hot or cold?

It is traditionally served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

What can I serve with Ful Medames?

Serve with pita bread, boiled eggs, pickles, olives, or a side of fresh vegetables.

Is Ful Medames vegan?

Yes! It’s naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein.

Can I prepare Ful Medames in advance?

Yes, you can cook the beans and store them in the fridge, then reheat and season before serving.

How do I make the dish creamier?

Mash the beans more thoroughly and add a bit of tahini or extra olive oil.

Is Ful Medames spicy?

Not traditionally, but you can add chili flakes or harissa for a spicy kick.

Can I make this dish without garlic?

Yes, but garlic adds depth of flavor. Try substituting with onion or a pinch of garlic powder.

What type of fava beans should I use?

Small, brown fava beans are commonly used for traditional Ful Medames.

Conclusion

Traditional Ful Medames is a simple, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of Egypt to your table. Whether served as a filling breakfast or a comforting meal, this recipe is nutritious, easy to prepare, and endlessly customizable. Enjoy it with warm pita bread, fresh garnishes, and a drizzle of olive oil for the ultimate experience!

Egyptian Fava Bean Stew