FAVA BEANS AND CHICORY (FAVE & CICORIE, STANLEY TUCCI APPROVED)

This is a popular dish in Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. It takes inspiration from Egyptian bean purées across the Mediterranean, and uses a few quality ingredients in similar ways.

Bitter greens balance the warm, hearty flavor of the bean puree perfectly in this simple 4-ingredient dish.

Allow extra time for soaking the dried fava beans.

Fava Beans and Chicory, or Fave e Cicoria, is a traditional dish from Southern Italy that perfectly captures the essence of rustic Italian cuisine. This hearty and wholesome recipe pairs creamy mashed fava beans with the slight bitterness of sautéed chicory, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Simple yet satisfying, this dish is a staple in regions like Puglia, where it’s often enjoyed as a comforting meal or a nutritious side.

In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare this classic Italian dish, share tips for perfecting it, and suggest variations to make it your own.

Fava Beans and Chicory Recipe

SERVINGS:4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 ½ pounds of wild chicory greens (or about 2 heads of radicchio)
• 2 cups dried fava beans
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

METHOD

1. Place the fava beans in a bowl of water and soak for six hours.
2. Drain beans and place in a pot. Add water until it reaches about a half inch above the beans. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring to a simmer. Let simmer, undisturbed, until the beans are mushy and tender (this is likely to take about an hour). Don’t be tempted to stir them. By the end, you should have just enough liquid in the pan to help the beans become mush. At that point, use a wooden spoon to mash the beans into a rough purée. The consistency should be similar to mashed potatoes.
3. In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicory and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain.
4. To serve, fill each plate with half chicory and half fava puree. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil each, and sprinkle with salt. Serve with crusty bread. Enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Fava Beans and Chicory

1. Use peeled fava beans: Peeled beans cook faster and result in a smoother mash.
2. Don’t skip the blanching: Blanching the chicory reduces its bitterness while preserving its vibrant color.
3. Make it creamy: Add a splash of vegetable broth or more olive oil to the mashed beans for a silkier texture.
4. Serve fresh: This dish is best enjoyed warm and freshly prepared.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Onions: Sauté thinly sliced onions with the garlic for a sweeter flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with red chili flakes or drizzle with chili oil for heat.
3. Cheesy Touch: Add a sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan over the top.
4. Herbal Notes: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a bright finish.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or lamb chops for a hearty meal.
• With Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or focaccia to scoop up the creamy mash.
• As a Vegan Meal: Enjoy on its own for a nutritious and filling plant-based dish.
• With Wine: Pair with a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti.

Conclusion

Fava Beans and Chicory is a rustic and nourishing Italian dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Its creamy beans and sautéed greens offer a delicious balance of textures and tastes, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Try it today and experience the comforting charm of Southern Italian cuisine!