Foul Shami

foul_shami

Egyptian Foul Shami is a popular dish in Egypt that is often served for breakfast or brunch. It is a filling and nutritious dish made from fava beans cooked with various spices, herbs, and seasonings. The dish has a rich history that dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was considered a staple food.

Foul Shami is made by cooking dried, peeled fava beans until they are soft and then mashing them into a thick paste. The mashed beans are then seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, including cumin, garlic, and coriander, to give the dish its distinct and delicious flavor. The dish is typically served with pita bread, diced tomatoes, and finely chopped onions.

Fava beans, the key ingredient in Foul Shami, are a highly nutritious legume that is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are often used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine to make a variety of dishes, including salads, stews, and dips.

Foul Shami is a common sight in Egyptian streets, where vendors sell it from roadside stands, popularly known in Egypt as “foul carts.” The dish has also become a popular staple in Egyptian households, where it is often prepared in large quantities and served with other traditional Egyptian dishes.

Foul Shami is not only a popular dish in Egypt but also in other countries, especially those in the Middle East and North Africa. The dish is also known as “ful medames” in some regions and goes by different names in different parts of the world.

In recent years, Foul Shami has gained popularity in Western countries as well, where it is often served as a healthy and nutritious breakfast option. The dish is gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and can easily be customized to suit different tastes and dietary requirements.

To make Foul Shami, first, the dried, peeled fava beans are soaked overnight to soften them before cooking. The beans are then boiled in water until they are soft and tender. Once cooked, the beans are mashed into a thick paste and seasoned with a blend of spices, herbs, and seasonings.

The spices used in Foul Shami can vary depending on personal preferences and regional differences. Common spices used in the dish include cumin, coriander, garlic, chili powder, and paprika. The herbs added to the dish can include parsley, mint, and cilantro. The beans can also be flavored with lemon juice, olive oil, or tahini for added richness and depth of flavor.

In conclusion, Egyptian Foul Shami is a traditional dish that has a rich history and is enjoyed by many people around the world. It is a filling and nutritious dish that can be customized to suit different dietary requirements and tastes. Its popularity is a testament to its delicious flavor and the versatility in its preparation. So try this dish for yourself and enjoy one of the most delicious and healthy breakfast dishes from Egypt.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of dried fava beans
  • 6 cups of water
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • Juice of 1-2 lemons
  • Salt to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Chopped parsley or cilantro
  • Chopped tomatoes (optional)
  • Chopped onions (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the dried fava beans and soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain them and rinse again.

  2. In a large pot, add the soaked fava beans and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the beans simmer for about an hour, or until they are very soft and fully cooked.

  3. Drain the beans and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the beans until they’re creamy but still have some texture.

  4. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil to the mashed beans. Stir well to combine.

  5. Divide the ful (mashed beans) into individual bowls or plates. Drizzle each portion with more olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro.

  6. For extra flavor and texture, top the ful with chopped tomatoes and onions, and serve with fresh pita bread or toast. Enjoy!