Sudanese Ful Medames

Steps

1. Rinse the dried fava beans under cold water and then place them in a large pot. Add 950 ml of water to the pot and let the beans soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours. This helps soften the beans and reduce the cooking time.
2. Drain the soaked fava beans and rinse them under cold water. Return the beans to the pot and add 950 ml of fresh water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 1–1½ hours, or until they become tender. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
3. Once the beans are tender, drain them using a colander or strainer and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add minced garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt to the bowl. Mix everything together, ensuring that the beans are coated evenly with the seasoning.
4. For a smoother consistency, you can use a fork or a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans. This step is optional and can be adjusted according to your preference.
5. Transfer the seasoned ful medames to a serving dish. Ful medames can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can serve it with a variety of optional toppings such as chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, hard-boiled eggs, or crumbled feta cheese. It is commonly served with bread or as a side dish alongside other Sudanese specialties.