Ingredients:
1 lb dried fava beans
1/2 lb fresh cicorielle
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp dried thyme
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Soak the fava beans in a large bowl of water overnight.
2. Rinse the fava beans and place them in a large pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, vegetable broth, and enough water to cover the beans.
4. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Rinse the cicorielle and chop them into small pieces.
6. In a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat.
7. Add the chopped cicorielle and sauté until they are tender, about 10 minutes.
8. Remove the bay leaf from the fava bean mixture and discard.
9. Drain the fava beans, reserving the cooking liquid.
10. In a blender or food processor, puree the fava beans and cicorielle until smooth, adding the reserved cooking liquid as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
11. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
12. Serve the puree warm, drizzled with some olive oil and topped with additional cicorielle if desired.
This fava bean and cicorielle puree is a delicious and healthy side dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is high in protein and fiber, and it’s also a great source of iron, magnesium, and other essential nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your regular mashed potatoes or other mashed vegetables.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to add more flavor to this puree. Fresh thyme, parsley, or cilantro would be great additions. You could also add some lemon juice or zest for a tangy twist. Serve it alongside some roasted chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a vegetarian main dish.
In conclusion, this fava bean and cicorielle puree is an easy, nutritious, and flavorful dish that you can enjoy any time of year. It’s a great way to get more plant-based protein and fiber into your diet, and it’s versatile enough to be served with a wide range of other foods. So go ahead and give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!