5 Best Fava Bean Substitutes
Are you tired of searching for fava beans only to come up empty-handed? Or you’ve tried them before and can’t acquire a taste for them. Don’t worry; I know some excellent substitutes.
Fava beans can be difficult to find in some areas and their flavor can be an acquired taste. Fortunately, plenty of substitutes are available that can mimic the texture and flavor profile of fava beans.
Let’s explore some of the best fava bean substitutes to help you find the perfect fava bean replacement for your next recipe.
What are Fava Beans?
Fava beans are a type of legume which are large and flat, with a green shell that encases the bean inside.
They are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium.
Fava beans have a slightly nutty and buttery flavor and a creamy texture, making them a versatile ingredient in many dishes.
You can be cooked in a variety of ways, such as boiling, roasting, or sautéing. They are often used in salads, soups, stews, and dips, such as the famous Egyptian dip, Ful Medames.
Here are some of the best substitutes for fava beans:
Lima Beans
Lima beans are one of the most similar substitutes to fava beans. They have a similar shape, texture, and flavor, with a slightly sweeter taste. Lima beans can be used in many of the same dishes as fava beans, such as soups, stews, and salads.
Edamame
Edamame, or soybeans, can also be a good substitute for fava beans. They have a similar texture and nutty flavor and are often used in Japanese cuisine. Edamame can be used in stir-fries, salads, and even as a snack.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas have a slightly different flavor than fava beans. Still, they have a similar texture and can be used in many of the same dishes. They are often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine and are great in salads, hummus, and falafel.
Cannellini Beans
Cannellini beans are another great substitute for fava beans. They have a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor, making them a good option for soups, stews, and salads.
Green Peas
Green peas have a similar texture to fava beans, although their flavor is sweeter. They are highly available in the USA and Europe and are often found fresh, frozen or tinned. I recommend using either fresh or frozen.
Conclusion
While fava beans are a delicious and versatile ingredient, there are many substitutes available that can give you a similar flavor and texture.
Lima beans, edamame, chickpeas and cannellini beans are great bean substitutes that share a similar cooking time as fava beans. While Green peas are a great vegetable substitute that are generally cooked for a shorter period of time.
I hope you found an excellent substitute for your recipe! Comment below if you have any questions.
5 Best Fava Bean Substitutes
Ingredients
- Lima Beans
- Edamame
- Chickpeas
- Cannellini Beans
- Green Peas
Instructions
- Choice your favourite substitute from the ingredients above.
- Follow the preparation directions for your chosen substitute with the correct ingredient ratio.
