This Lebanese Ful Medames recipe is quick, healthy, and deeply flavorful. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and high in fiber and protein. The creamy texture of the beans combined with the zesty lemon and garlic makes each bite refreshing yet comforting. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly and perfect for meal prepping. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Ful Medames is a fulfilling dish that can be enjoyed with pita bread or on its own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Canned or cooked fava beans
Garlic
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt
Cumin
Chopped parsley
Diced tomatoes (optional)
Chopped onions (optional)
Fresh mint (optional for garnish)
Pita bread for serving
Directions
If using canned fava beans, drain and rinse them. If using dried fava beans, soak overnight and cook until tender.
In a saucepan, add the beans along with a splash of water and heat gently over medium heat until warmed through.
Mash the beans slightly with a potato masher or back of a spoon, keeping some texture.
Add minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin. Stir well to combine.
Continue to cook for another few minutes until everything is well blended and fragrant.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or cumin as desired.
Transfer to a serving bowl and top with chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Garnish with fresh mint if using, and serve with warm pita bread.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 3 to 4 servings. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Spicy Ful Medames: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped green chili for a spicy kick.
Creamy Version: Mix in a spoonful of tahini for extra creaminess and a nutty flavor.
Chunky Style: Keep more of the beans whole rather than mashing for a chunkier texture.
Tomato Base: Simmer the beans with diced tomatoes for a more stew-like consistency.
Topped with Egg: Serve with a hard-boiled or fried egg on top for a protein boost.
With Yogurt: Serve with a side of plain yogurt for a cool contrast.
Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro or dill for a different herbal touch.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Ful Medames in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the mixture. It can also be reheated in the microwave. This dish can be served cold or at room temperature as well.
FAQs
What are fava beans?
Fava beans, also known as broad beans, are a type of legume that have a creamy texture and earthy flavor. They are a staple in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.
Can I use canned fava beans?
Yes, canned fava beans are a convenient option and work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before use.
Is Ful Medames served hot or cold?
Ful Medames can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold. It’s versatile and delicious in any form.
Can I make Ful Medames ahead of time?
Absolutely. It keeps well in the refrigerator and the flavors often improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight.
Is Ful Medames vegan?
Yes, this dish is naturally vegan and plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
What can I serve with Ful Medames?
Serve it with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, pickles, or a side of yogurt. It also pairs well with hard-boiled eggs.
How do I make Ful Medames from dried beans?
Soak dried fava beans overnight, then simmer them in water until soft—about 45 to 60 minutes—before following the recipe.
What does Ful Medames taste like?
It has a rich, earthy, and slightly tangy flavor from the lemon and garlic, with a creamy yet textured consistency.
Can I freeze Ful Medames?
Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Is Ful Medames healthy?
Definitely. It’s high in protein, fiber, iron, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Lebanese Ful Medames is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. With its wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a timeless classic that brings comfort and nutrition to the table. Whether you’re enjoying it with pita or customizing it with your favorite toppings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Lebanese Ful Medames is a hearty and flavorful Middle Eastern dish made with mashed fava beans, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a wholesome, plant-based meal often enjoyed for breakfast, served with fresh herbs, vegetables, and pita bread.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:3 to 4 servings
Category:Breakfast
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Lebanese
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
2 cups canned or cooked fava beans
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Warm pita bread, for serving
Instructions
If using canned fava beans, drain and rinse them. If using dried beans, soak overnight and cook until tender.
In a saucepan, add the beans with a splash of water and heat over medium heat until warmed through.
Lightly mash the beans with a potato masher or back of a spoon, leaving some texture.
Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin. Stir to combine.
Cook for another few minutes until well blended and fragrant.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Transfer to a serving bowl and top with chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Garnish with mint if using and serve with warm pita bread.
Notes
Add chili flakes or green chili for a spicy version.Mix in tahini for a creamier texture and nutty flavor.Leave more beans whole for a chunky style.Simmer with diced tomatoes for a stew-like base.Top with a fried or hard-boiled egg for extra protein.Serve with yogurt for a cool contrast.Add fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for variation.
