Historically cherished in both Moroccan and Egyptian cuisines, Bessara is a rustic dish that dates back centuries, embodying the essence of simplicity and nourishment. Its velvety texture and delightful combination of earthy fava beans and fragrant cumin make it a beloved comfort food, particularly in the cooler months.
Bessara, also known as “Bissara,” boasts a flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing. The hearty fava beans create a creamy base, balanced by the savory notes of garlic, olive oil, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin and saffron. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also packed with nutritional benefits.
Ingredients
- 250 grams of dry fava beans, purified and washed
- 1 large clove of garlic (or 2 small cloves)
- ½ tablespoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- A pinch of saffron or nutritional yellow color
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Water for cooking
- Optional: additional olive oil, cumin, and hot pepper for garnish
Preparation
- Place the fava beans, garlic, and salt into a pot.
- Add sufficient water to cover the ingredients and cook under pressure for 45 minutes until the beans are tender.
- After cooking, assess the water content. If necessary, add a little water to achieve desired consistency.
- Blend the mixture in an electric blender until smooth.
- Transfer the blended mixture back into a pot.
- Add ½ tablespoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of saffron.
- Stir in the vegetable oil and olive oil, and mix thoroughly.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture begins to boil.
- Once boiling, remove from heat and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional olive oil, cumin, and hot pepper if desired.
Did you know?
Bessara is traditionally served as a hearty breakfast or a comforting supper, often accompanied by fresh bread for dipping. In Morocco and Egypt, it’s common to enjoy this dish during the colder months as it provides warmth and sustenance.
Interestingly, fava beans are known for their high protein and fiber content, making Bessara not just delicious but also nutritionally beneficial. Rich in vitamins A, B, and C, this dish also aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure and improves digestive health.
In Moroccan street food culture, Bessara is typically sold in small roadside stalls, where it is served piping hot, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of cumin, offering a quick, wholesome meal. Moreover, this dish is deeply rooted in agrarian traditions, as fava beans are a staple crop, making Bessara an eco-friendly, sustainable choice that honors local farming communities. The ability to blend simplicity with depth of flavor makes Bessara a must-try for anyone interested in traditional North African cuisine.
