Foul Moudamas

Get ready for a vegan favorite with my Arabic Foul Moudamas recipe! This vibrant dish features creamy fava beans & tomatoes seasoned with cumin and lemon, all drizzled with olive oil & fresh parsley. It's easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for dipping warm pita bread. Perfect for any meal, including as a high-protein breakfast!

Foul Moudamas (Arabic Fava Beans)

Looking for another classic stew with beans but with added meat? Try my Lebanese Fasolia!

Ingredients

Time

Total:
15m
Prep:
3m
Cook:
12m
  • Fava beans, 1 can
  • Vine Cherry Tomatoes, 10 small
  • Water, 1/4 cup
  • Garlic, 1 clove
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1 tbsp
  • Lemon Juice, 1 tsp
  • Cumin, 1 pinch
  • Parsley, 2 chopped sprigs
  • Salt, to taste

Notes

If you can't find canned fava beans, you can use dry ones after soaking them overnight. Add a teaspoon of baking soda to the water to help remove bitterness from the beans.

Nutrition Facts

Serves: 2 (serving size: bowls)
Calories per serving: 166
% Daily Value
Total Fat 8g12%
Saturated 1.3g6%
Omega-3 0g0%
Cholesterol 0g0%
Total Carbohydrates 22.5g8%
Dietary Fibers 6g21%
Sugars 2.5g3%
Protein 7g15%
Vitamin C 17.5mg23%
Vitamin A 120mg17%
Iron 2.5mg17%
Sodium 390mg17%

Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, roughly mash half of the fava beans with a fork. You can leave some whole for texture and for presentation.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. Add the extra virgin olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds and let the garlic gently sizzle to release its fragrance.

Step 3

Add the mashed and whole fava beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and cumin to the pan with the garlic and olive oil. Give a good stir and let the ingredients saut for 2 minutes.

Then, pour in the water and cook for 5-10 minutes or until the soup has thickened and the tomatoes have softened.

Season with salt to taste.

Step 4

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the lemon juice.

Step 5

Transfer the foul mudammas to a serving plate. Drizzle with additional olive oil, if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy warm with pita bread for dipping!

Goes well with

Foul Mudammas usually goes perfectly with pita bread, but if you are looking for something with a bit more oomph, try my cheesy Lebanese flatbread!

FAQ

What is Arabic Foul Mudammas?

Foul Mudammas (pronounced as "fool"), also known as Ful Medames or Foul Moudamas, is a popular vegetarian breakfast dish throughout the Middle East and North Africa. It's a simple yet flavorful stew made primarily from fava beans, cooked and seasoned with spices like cumin and lemon juice.

What are the key ingredients in Foul Mudammas?

  • Fava Beans: The star of the show! They are typically cooked from dried beans, but canned fava beans are a convenient alternative.

  • Olive Oil: Adds richness and healthy fats.

  • Lemon Juice: Provides a refreshing tang and brightness.

  • Cumin: A warm spice that adds depth of flavor.

  • Salt: To balance the bitterness and earthiness of fava beans.

Are there any variations of Foul Mudammas?

Absolutely! Here are some common variations:

  • Vegetables: Chopped tomatoes, onions, peppers, or cucumbers are popular additions.

  • Spices: Garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a sprinkle of sumac can be included for extra flair.

  • Toppings: Fresh parsley, chopped scallions, crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of tahini sauce are all delicious options.

  • Protein Boost: Some recipes add cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and heartiness.

How is Foul Mudammas typically served?

Foul Mudammas is traditionally served warm with pita bread for dipping. It's a common breakfast dish, but can also be enjoyed for lunch or a light dinner.

What does Foul Mudammas taste like?

Foul Mudammas has a creamy texture from the mashed fava beans and a savory flavor profile. The cumin adds warmth, the lemon juice provides a tangy brightness, and the olive oil adds richness. The additional vegetables and spices you choose will further enhance the taste.

Is Foul Mudammas healthy?

Foul Mudammas is a nutritious and protein-packed dish. Fava beans are a good source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The olive oil adds healthy fats, and the lemon juice provides vitamin C.