Broad Beans

Vicia faba   |   Fava Beans | Avarakkai | Sem | Horse Beans

Broad beans are large, flat, bright-green legumes encased in thick, velvety pods. One of the oldest cultivated crops in the world, they have a distinctive earthy, buttery flavour and a creamy texture when cooked. Both the young beans and tender pods are edible.

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of plant-based protein — ideal for vegetarian and vegan diets
  • Rich in folate — essential for cell growth and particularly important during pregnancy
  • High in fibre — supports digestive and cardiovascular health
  • Good source of iron, manganese, copper, and zinc
  • Contain L-dopa — a compound studied for neurological health benefits

Nutrition: Calories: 88 kcal | Protein: 7.6g | Fibre: 5.4g | Carbs: 14.5g (per 100g, cooked)

Culinary Uses: Eaten boiled or steamed as a side dish. Used in ful medames (Egyptian staple), soups, pasta, risottos, and stir-fries. Young pods can be cooked whole.

Description

Broad beans are large, flat, bright-green legumes encased in thick, velvety pods. One of the oldest cultivated crops in the world, they have a distinctive earthy, buttery flavour and a creamy texture when cooked. Both the young beans and tender pods are edible.