How to Peel Habas Fava Beans
A thick outer shell and tough skin yield a delicious and flavorful bean, though it can seem almost too much trouble to get to. However, fava beans are known all over the world and are included in many dishes, from pastas to crostini. One of the main ways they are eaten in Colombia is fried, and are known as "habas". From street vendors to homes, the beans are fried and salted for about four minutes before being served. While the beans are usually peeled before frying, occasionally this is done after, to retain the flavor but lower the fat content by removing the fried part. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Cool the beans down to a temperature that is comfortable to handle.
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2
Run your finger along the side seam of the bean; often, after heating, this will open up just a bit.
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3
Insert your finger in the skin until you feel the bean underneath.
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4
Peel off the skin on both sides, using both hands.
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5
Place the skin into one bowl and the peeled beans into the other.
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6
Salt the peeled beans to add flavor.
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Tips & Warnings
Peeling the beans before cooking can ensure that there is no discoloration from gasses trapped between the skin and the bean.
Find out if a member of your family or guest enjoys the skins of fava beans before removing them. There is a variety of preference concerning this.
Be careful handling the beans right out of the sauce pan, for the oil can burn your hands.
References
- Photo Credit Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
