B'ssara recipe

Dive into the heart of Moroccan mornings with B’ssara, a soul-warming fava bean dip. This creamy delight is a staple breakfast in Morocco, enjoyed for its robust flavor and comforting texture. Fava beans are mashed with garlic, olive oil, and spices, creating a dip that’s both hearty and flavorful. B’ssara is a delicious way to start your day, perfect for scooping up with warm pita bread. So, why not embrace the Moroccan tradition and try this unique and tasty breakfast option?
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 Cups Dried Fava Beans: These are the little green guys who will form the base of your champion breakfast. Just don’t confuse them for lima beans – those are the sidekicks, not the stars.
- 1 Onion (chopped): Your trusty kitchen knight in shining armor. Diced onion adds both flavor and depth, making sure your B’ssara isn’t all about the beans (although they are pretty darn awesome).
- 4 Cloves of Garlic (minced): Garlic is nature’s magic potion, and in this recipe, it’s going to add a serious punch of flavor. Just be warned, you might scare away any lingering vampires (or that coworker who sits a little too close).
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Cumin is the secret weapon in this dish. It adds a warm, earthy flavor that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a touch of smokiness and a vibrant color, making your B’ssara look almost too pretty to eat (but trust us, it’s delicious).
- Cayenne Pepper (a pinch, more if you’re a fire-breathing dragon): A sprinkle of cayenne pepper is optional, but if you like things with a kick, feel free to add more. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and maybe a glass of milk).
- Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon): A squeeze of lemon juice adds a touch of brightness, like a ray of sunshine on a gloomy morning (or a metaphorical ray of hope after a rough night).
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/4 cup): This liquid gold will bind everything together and add a silky smooth texture. Just don’t be tempted to chug it all beforehand (we’ve all been there).
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – they’re the seasoning sidekicks that will elevate your B’ssara to champion status.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the victory lap of this recipe, adding a touch of color and freshness.
- Warm Pita Bread (for serving): This is your trusty steed for scooping up all that delicious B’ssara. Imagine yourself a gallant knight, conquering your breakfast plate one bite at a time.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: The Fava Bean Feud
- The night before: Soak those dried fava beans in water for at least 8 hours. This will soften them up and make them easier to mash – consider it a pre-breakfast peace treaty.
Step 2: The Onion Offensive
- Dice your onion. Try to channel your inner swordfighter with precise cuts, but don’t worry about perfection – a little oniony rebellion is okay.
Step 3: The Garlicky Gauntlet
- Peel and mince your garlic cloves. If you find yourself shedding a tear or two, blame it on the emotional intensity of preparing such a delicious breakfast.
Step 4: The Spice Souk
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat up some olive oil. This will be the battlefield where your flavors come together.
- Sauté your diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat. Cook them until the onions are softened and translucent – think of them as softening up the enemy lines before the main attack.
Step 5: The Fava Bean Blitz
- Drain your soaked fava beans and rinse them well. No prisoner wants to be brought to battle dirty!
- Add the fava beans, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir everything together to coat the beans in spices – this is your battle cry before the fava beans are mashed into submission (or rather, creamy goodness).
Step 6: The Watery Truce
- Pour in enough water to cover the fava beans by about an inch. Water is the mediator in this fight, ensuring nothing burns and everything cooks evenly.
Step 7: The Simmering Siege
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the fava beans are nice and tender. Imagine your army slowly wearing down the enemy (the tough fava beans) until they surrender to mushy perfection.
Step 8: The Mashing Melee
- Once the fava beans are tender, take a potato masher or an immersion blender and mash them up. You can leave it a bit chunky or go for a smoother consistency – it’s your call, fearless leader!
Step 9: The Victory Lap
- Stir in the lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. This is where you add the finishing touches to your champion breakfast, like a victory lap after a successful battle.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Because even champions appreciate a bit of presentation.
Step 10: The Pita Bread Parade
- Serve your B’ssara warm with pita bread for scooping. Now, gather your breakfast spoils and enjoy your well-deserved victory over hunger (and maybe a hangover).